Saturday (7th of June 2025) 

Welcome to the Neurodiversity Café Blog!

Here, we aim to answer some of the most common questions Marta and her team hear during psychoeducation sessions and therapy. Today, I want to talk about a concept beautifully explained in Dr. Edward Hallowell’s work—something we call the “Demon.”

Now, don’t worry—it’s not all doom and gloom. In this context, the “Demon” represents an energy load or mental mechanism that often appears in the neurodivergent mind. For individuals with ADHD, the Demon might get louder when boredom strikes. For those with Autism, it might show up as the need to collect data before a social event.

But here’s the thing: your Demon is also your potential. If you learn how to work with it, your Demon can become your ally.

Let me explain with a simple analogy: think of your Demon like a muscle. Muscles have the potential to grow and give you strength—your unique skills. But if you don’t train them, they can work against you.

My Demon’s name is EM. I remember when she was born—I was eight years old. I struggled to speak in social situations and as I later discovered, experienced ADHD-related speech paralysis. One day, a teacher asked the class a question. I knew the answer. “Okay,” I thought, “I can do this.” I raised my hand, and the teacher called on me.

I stood up, but my mind was racing: What tone should I use? How should I start? Can I expand on my answer? At the same time, I was distracted by the bright orange of my teacher’s top and suddenly craving orange juice. Five seconds passed in silence as all this played out in my head.

Then the teacher said, “Can someone help Marta?”

Help? I didn’t need help—I knew the answer! Out of frustration and anger, EM was born. She became a voice of protest, a rebellious soul. EM was powerful, but not always helpful. I later realised she was trying to protect me—because being angry felt easier than feeling embarrassed.

Years later, through speech and language therapy, I learned how to pace myself when speaking and how to observe what was happening in my body. EM didn’t disappear—but I channeled her potential. Now that I’ve found my voice, EM gives it volume.

Together, we speak to clients, patients, and students about the importance of self-education if you have neurodivergent tendencies. Yes, you may face some limitations—but you also have incredible potential. You have your own personal Demon :)

From EM and me—wishing you a wonderful weekend!

Warmly,
Dr Marta Karatysz