Neurodivergent & Chronic Illness Resources

MCAS, POTS, EDS/hEDS, Fibromyalgia & GI Dysregulation Support

Many neurodivergent individuals—especially autistic and ADHD adults—also experience complex chronic health conditions such as Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS/hEDS), fibromyalgia, and gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility or sensitivity.

These experiences are real, often misunderstood, and frequently overlooked in traditional medical and mental health systems. This resource page is designed to offer education, validation, and support for individuals navigating the intersection of neurodivergence and chronic illness.

Understanding the Overlap: Neurodivergence + Chronic Illness

Research and lived experience increasingly show overlap between neurodivergent nervous systems and chronic multisystem conditions such as:

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and hypermobile EDS (hEDS)

Fibromyalgia and chronic widespread pain

Functional and motility-related GI disorders (IBS, gastroparesis-like symptoms)

Many individuals experience:

Sensory sensitivities that impact immune and digestive responses

Dysautonomia (nervous system regulation challenges)

Chronic fatigue, pain, or inflammation

Food and environmental sensitivities

Fluctuating symptoms tied to stress, burnout, or overload

These are not “just anxiety” or “in your head”—they reflect complex nervous system and body-level interactions that deserve understanding and compassionate care.

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

MCAS involves inappropriate or excessive activation of mast cells, which can affect multiple systems in the body.

Common experiences may include:

Flushing, hives, or skin reactions

Food and chemical sensitivities

GI symptoms (nausea, cramping, diarrhea, reflux)

Fatigue and brain fog

Heightened reaction to stress or sensory input

MCAS can be especially relevant in neurodivergent individuals who experience heightened sensory processing and nervous system reactivity.

POTS & Dysautonomia

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a form of dysautonomia affecting heart rate, blood pressure regulation, and energy levels.

Common experiences may include:

Rapid heart rate upon standing

Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness

Fatigue and exercise intolerance

Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

Temperature regulation challenges

POTS is often misunderstood and may co-occur with autism, ADHD, MCAS, and EDS.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS / hEDS)

EDS is a connective tissue condition that can affect joints, skin, and systemic stability. Hypermobile EDS (hEDS) is one of the most commonly identified subtypes.

Common experiences may include:

Joint hypermobility or instability

Frequent pain or injuries

Fatigue and muscle weakness

Digestive and autonomic symptoms

Sensory sensitivity and fatigue from physical strain

EDS often overlaps with neurodivergence and dysautonomia, creating complex, interconnected symptoms.

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition involving central nervous system sensitization.

Common experiences may include:

Widespread pain

Sleep disturbances

Fatigue and “crash” cycles

Cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”)

Heightened sensory sensitivity

Fibromyalgia is increasingly understood through a nervous system and trauma-informed lens rather than a purely musculoskeletal one.

GI Dysregulation & Sensory-Based Digestive Issues

Many neurodivergent and chronically ill individuals experience digestive system sensitivity, including:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Food intolerances or sensitivities

Gastroparesis-like symptoms

Nausea related to stress or sensory overload

Fluctuating appetite or digestion tied to nervous system state

The gut and nervous system are deeply interconnected through the gut-brain axis.

A Neuroaffirming Perspective

From a neuroaffirming lens, these conditions are not viewed as isolated “defects,” but as part of a complex interaction between:

Nervous system regulation

Immune system sensitivity

Connective tissue differences

Stress response patterns

Neurodevelopmental wiring

Healing and support involve understanding your body, reducing overwhelm, and building tools that support regulation—not forcing the body into compliance.

Support & Therapy Focus

In my practice, I support adults navigating:

Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, AuDHD)

Trauma and nervous system dysregulation

Chronic illness-related emotional impact

Burnout, masking, and identity fatigue

Diagnostic exploration and validation

My approach integrates neuropsychotherapy, EMDR-informed therapy, somatic awareness, polyvagal-informed care, and parts work to support nervous system regulation and self-understanding.

Important Note

This page is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing chronic or complex symptoms, a multidisciplinary care team (medical + mental health) is often most supportive.

You Are Not Alone

Living in a body that is sensitive, reactive, or misunderstood can feel isolating. Support exists, understanding exists, and your experiences are valid.

If you're looking for therapy that honors both your nervous system and your lived experience, you are welcome here.