Spicy Thoughts

The Full Collection

Unexpected Understanding
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Unexpected Understanding

Speaking up about misophonia can feel daunting, but sometimes it leads to the most unexpected and rewarding connections. A simple conversation can turn a triggering moment into one of understanding, reminding us that being brave can change not just the night—but the way we navigate the world.

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Affirmation Over Grief
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Affirmation Over Grief

I have been pondering lately on how my ADHD diagnosis didn’t bring the grief many women experience. Instead, I felt relief and a deeper understanding of myself. But sometimes, I wonder if something’s wrong with me for not feeling the same as so many other women.

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20% Isn’t Small
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

20% Isn’t Small

Recently I have been reflecting on the reasons I started this blog, from raising awareness about misophonia to advocating for more research and understanding. With 20% of the global population affected by this condition, it's time for greater recognition—and here I share why I’m passionate about keeping this conversation going.

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Roadmap to Help
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Roadmap to Help

Supporting someone with misophonia is new territory for many people, so how can you help? Let’s dive in and explore the best ways to make their journey easier.

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Hyperfixations: Flings & Forevers
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Hyperfixations: Flings & Forevers

From impulsive flings to long-term loves, my ADHD hyperfixations come in all forms. In this post, I’m sharing the fixations that burned bright and fizzled out, alongside the ones that stuck around longer than I ever expected. Sound like a whirlwind romance?

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Noise, Love & Guilt
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Noise, Love & Guilt

Misophonia is a constant, invisible battle that affects not only the person living with it but also the ones they love. In this post, I share the emotional journey of navigating relationships with misophonia, from the guilt it creates to the gratitude for those who stand by me. If you’re living with misophonia or love someone who does, this is for you.

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Annoyed, Sensitive, Triggered: What’s the Difference!?
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Annoyed, Sensitive, Triggered: What’s the Difference!?

Annoyed? Sensitive? Triggered?! In the past I've been told I’m ‘Just SO intolerant’ of certain sounds, but it’s not about being sensitive—it’s a neurological response that’s beyond my control. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood this blog dives into the difference between being sensitive to noise, annoyed by noise and triggered by noise.

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The Impact of Sounds
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

The Impact of Sounds

Have you ever wondered what misophonia feels like and how it affects everyday life? Here I share a snippet of what misophonia feels like and how it impacts daily life.

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Discovering Misophonia
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Discovering Misophonia

Have you ever lived with something for years, feeling its impact on your daily life, but couldn’t explain it? That was me, until one chance encounter changed everything.

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Spicy Vanilla
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

Spicy Vanilla

Ever felt like you don’t quite fit in, yet something about you feels magical? Explore how embracing both the "spicy" and "vanilla" sides of ourselves can unlock the unique magic we’re meant to embrace.

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To Speak or Not to Speak: Navigating misophonia in public
Hayley Standen Hayley Standen

To Speak or Not to Speak: Navigating misophonia in public

Navigating public spaces with misophonia raises tough questions about self-advocacy, understanding, and the balance between personal boundaries and public expectations. This piece explores how invisible triggers can shape our daily interactions and the need for greater empathy and awareness of misophonia.

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