Fibromyalgia: Through a Neurodivergent Lens - Lincoln

The workshop will be based at PAACT Office, Hillcroft House, Hillcroft Buisness Park, LN8 3QT.

This in-depth, discussion-led workshop explores Fibromyalgia as more than a chronic condition, framing it through a neurodivergent perspective that highlights the intersections of brain-body processing, sensory sensitivity, and cognitive variance.

Drawing from lived experience and current research, participants are invited to engage in open dialogue around the neurological, cognitive, and functional aspects of fibromyalgia. This workshop challenges the limits of traditional medical categorisation by examining fibromyalgia as part of a wider spectrum of neurodivergent experience, alongside conditions such as ADHD, autism, and functional neurological presentations.

Through structured, participant-driven conversations, we examine:

• Theories of causation and their implications, including genetic, neurological, and environmental triggers.
• Central Sensitization and abnormal pain processing: how the nervous system may respond differently in fibromyalgia.
• “Fibro Fog” and cognitive fatigue: overlaps with executive dysfunction, memory difficulties, and attention issues.
• Co-occurrence and misdiagnosis: how fibromyalgia often presents alongside neurodivergent traits, and the impact of diagnostic overshadowing.
• Myth-busting and misinformation: separating fact from fiction using evidence-based reflection and real-world narratives.
• Identity, validity, and lived narrative: how reframing fibromyalgia through a neurodivergent lens can lead to improved understanding, empowerment, and belonging.

This is a participatory, conversational session that prioritises dialogue and experience-sharing over lecture-style delivery. It invites attendees to contribute their thoughts, professional insights, or personal reflections in a relaxed and affirming environment.

Attendees are encouraged to explore flexible thinking and challenge binary assumptions about “physical vs psychological” conditions, with space given to the complexities and individuality of fibromyalgia experiences.

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