Climbing the Walls Behind the scenes of “Climbing the Walls” (from “Hyperfocus”)
May 28, 2025
Danielle Elliot, a health and science journalist from New York, takes listeners behind the scenes of her investigative work on ADHD in women. She discusses the alarming rise in ADHD diagnoses among women, particularly during the pandemic. The conversation delves into the dual nature of ADHD, presenting both struggles and unique strengths. Danielle reveals the evolutionary benefits of ADHD and emphasizes the importance of community support, sharing personal experiences that highlight the transformative impact of understanding and acceptance.
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Environment-Induced ADHD Symptoms
- Many symptoms resembling ADHD may result from environmental factors, not ADHD itself.
- Changing environment can reduce these symptoms, unlike true neurodivergence.
ADHD's Evolutionary Community Role
- ADHD may offer evolutionary benefits on a community level, not just individual.
- Risk-taking behaviors help human groups learn and adapt, even at individual cost.
Diagnosis Rejection and Stigma
- Initial reaction to ADHD diagnosis often includes rejection due to negative stigma.
- Diagnosis can feel like admitting a fundamental personal flaw, causing emotional resistance.
