What makes the transition to adulthood feel overwhelming for many neurodivergent young adults—and how can families help? On this episode, Zack interviews Justin Messinger, LCMHCS, Clinical Director at Intrepid Young Adults in the Asheville, North Carolina, area. Together, they explore how anxiety, executive functioning challenges, and years of feeling misunderstood can affect confidence, relationships, college, and employment. Justin discusses why applying for a job or accessing college support can involve more hurdles than others realize, and how past setbacks can make trying again feel intimidating.

For young adults seeking greater independence and parents wondering how to support them, Justin emphasizes building trust, understanding individual goals, and doing things with young adults rather than for them. He explains how practicing everyday skills in the community, offering the right level of support, and listening to feedback can help young adults build confidence at their own pace. The conversation also considers the value of online friendships, the importance of belonging, and why recognizing small steps forward can nurture hope and make the next challenge feel more manageable.

Zack's Hack: In this week's anxiety hack Zack shares a quote from The Hunger Games movie to help you fear less!

Fear Less is sponsored by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.