Have you ever sent someone a meme, a song, or a random TikTok… and then immediately spiraled when they didn’t respond?

If you’re neurodivergent, those tiny “this made me think of you” moments aren’t random. They’re emotional bids for connection.

In this episode of Divergent Paths, Dr. Regina McMenomy, Ph.D. explores why ADHD brains are wired for micro-connections and why something as small as an unread message can activate rejection sensitivity, anxious attachment, or demand avoidance.

You’ll learn:

• Why associative thinking makes memes feel meaningful
• How ADHD object permanence impacts relationships
• The difference between healthy micro-connection and hidden reassurance-seeking
• What happens when your “pebbling style” doesn’t match someone else’s
• How anxious attachment and RSD can escalate tiny moments into big spirals

We also talk about how entire friendships can grow from small, consistent bids for connection and why this style of relating isn’t childish, clingy, or too much.

If sending a meme feels easier than saying “I miss you,” this episode will help you understand what your nervous system is really doing and how to make your bids for connection land in a healthy way.

Sign up for N.E.R.D. Notes and get weekly nerdy neurodivergent insights!

Book a Clarity Call with Regina

About Dr. Regina McMenomy, PhD

Regina is a neurodivergent coach and educator who helps late-diagnosed adults unmask, heal from burnout, and build lives aligned with how their brains work. She founded Divergent Paths Consulting to provide the type of coaching and support that late-diagnosed nerdy neurodivergent folks in educational leadership and tech fields need when they receive their late diagnoses.