Solving the MONEY PUZZLE

For an estimated 600,000 Canadians living with disorders such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia, dealing with finances can be a nightmare. Specialists in the field have solutions

- RENEE SYLVESTRE-WILLIAMS

Something I've found that works is setting up a system and downloading all of that info out of their head into it.

Sticking to a budget and savings plan is a formidable challenge for most people.

For individuals with ADHD, autism or other neurodivergent traits, it can be a nightmare of plans derailed by impulsivity and feelings of being overwhelmed with how banking and financial information is presented.

Some financial planners are now specializing in working with neurodivergent individuals those whose brains process information in a way that is not neurotypical - to create personalized financial strategies tailored to their unique needs.

"Neurodivergent clients can be stuck in avoidance mode and feel overwhelmed with knowing where to start," says Sherry Andrew, a financial coach and founder of Money Mindset Financial Coaching, who explains that the biggest thing her clients are looking for is support and guidance.

"They often know they want things to be different but can get stuck in research mode and not move into the action part. Or they try to implement changes, and when they experience any setbacks, they get frustrated, give up, and revert back into avoidance mode." Neurodiversity, according to Harvard Medical School, refers to the idea that people interact with and experience the world in different ways with no one correct way of thinking, learning and behaving.