From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Creating Community and Connection for Women with ADHD

18 snips

Dec 4, 2024

Terry Matlen, an internationally recognized expert on ADHD in women, shares her insights as a psychotherapist and author of "The Queen of Distraction." She discusses the historical misunderstandings surrounding ADHD in women and the critical role of community support. The conversation touches on how life stages affect ADHD symptoms and emphasizes that it’s never too late to embrace one’s identity. With practical coping strategies and personal anecdotes, Terry inspires listeners to reclaim their narratives and navigate life’s challenges.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

ANECDOTE

Terry's Diagnosis

Terry Matlen's ADHD journey began with her daughter's illness after a vaccine.
This led her to research ADHD, which sparked her own diagnosis in her early forties.

INSIGHT

Structure and ADHD

Many women find being a stay-at-home mom harder than working due to the lack of structure.
Work provides built-in routines, deadlines, and feedback, which can be helpful for managing ADHD.

INSIGHT

Misdiagnosis and Stigma

Women with ADHD were often misdiagnosed or labeled as lazy, having personality disorders, or character flaws.
This led to low self-esteem and difficulties in relationships, emphasizing the need for education and support.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

I get asked all the time if we're ever too old for an ADHD diagnosis. I always reply the same: of course not. No one is ever too old to finally lean into their most authentic version of themselves. I discuss this with Terry Matlen, an internationally recognised expert on ADHD in women with over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist, author, and coach.

Terry’s expertise and personal insights offer practical advice and hope for women navigating ADHD, no matter their stage of life. This conversation reminds us that it’s never too late to reclaim our narrative and lead a fulfilling life.

Author of The Queen of Distraction and Survival Tips for Women with ADHD, Terry runs ADDconsults.com, a global resource supporting women with ADHD and empowers women with ADHD to navigate life’s challenges and thrive.

Terry has kindly shared a bonus resource exclusive to all podcast listeners. Click here to access it: https://addconsults.com/bonus-for-km-podcast/

Together, we explore the unique experiences of women with ADHD and how societal changes have shaped the journey to diagnosis and treatment.

On this episode of The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss:

How ADHD in women has been historically misunderstood and overlooked
The critical role of community support and online forums for women with ADHD
How hormone fluctuations during life stages like motherhood and menopause impact ADHD symptoms
Practical coping strategies for managing the emotional toll of ADHD
Women with ADHD often face societal stigma and self-doubt, impacting their self-esteem and well-being.
The ADHD community has evolved significantly over the past 25 years, largely due to increased awareness.
Hormonal changes during menopause can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, necessitating tailored treatment approaches.
Coaching and community support are essential for women navigating the challenges of ADHD.
Late diagnosis can provide a new perspective, allowing women to reclaim their potential and happiness.
Self-care strategies are crucial for women with ADHD, especially when managing co-existing conditions.

Takeaways:

ADHD in women has often gone undiagnosed, leading to feelings of isolation.
Social media and community spaces provide vital support for women with ADHD.
Hormone changes can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, highlighting the need for tailored strategies.
Knowledge and connection are key to managing ADHD and thriving.

Timestamps:

09:51 - Understanding ADHD: A historical perspective
16:58 - Celebrating women with ADHD
20:00 - Understanding the impact of ADHD on women's lives
31:42 - Introduction to the Queen of Distraction
34:12 - Understanding ADHD: A New Perspective

Thank you to our sponsor Sleepypeople.com, who is currently offering 15% off its products to all podcast listeners. Click to learn more and use the discount code Kate15 at the checkout.

Thank you to our sponsor Get Dopa who are currently offering 10% off their supplements to all podcast listeners. Click to learn more and use the discount code Kate10 at the checkout.

Kate Moryoussef is a women's ADHD lifestyle and wellbeing coach and EFT practitioner who helps overwhelmed and unfulfilled newly diagnosed ADHD women find more calm, balance, hope, health, compassion, creativity and clarity.