EP. 78: What Does ADHD Look Like in Women? The Update
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Jul 1, 2020
Discover the unique ways ADHD manifests in women, highlighting that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Learn about the complexities of ADHD symptoms, especially in girls who often mask their struggles. Explore the biological roots of ADHD and the impact of trauma, along with the importance of tailored strategies beyond medication. Uncover the strengths like creativity and hyperfocus that come with ADHD, and why smart girls might face greater challenges. Embrace a neurobiological perspective that recognizes the brilliance within ADHD.
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insights INSIGHT
ADHD As A Brain Difference
Tracy Otsuka reframes ADHD as a brain difference rather than a disorder and objects to the name "attention deficit."
She argues ADHD is better seen as surplus attention and varied wiring needing strengths-based strategies.
insights INSIGHT
Wired For Interest Not Information
Tracy explains ADHD brains are wired for interest, not information, causing major executive function differences.
These differences affect planning, initiation, time perception, and working memory.
insights INSIGHT
ADHD Is Well-Established Scientifically
Tracy shares epidemiology and affirms ADHD's scientific validation via imaging and genetics.
She notes adult prevalence is underreported and many women remain undiagnosed.
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In Episode 78 of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, Tracy updates her second most popular podcast episode which is all about what ADHD looks like. She discusses: The fact that there is no cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all formula when we’re talking about ADHD symptoms. That we all have our own individual ADHD puzzle to solve. What ADHD is Why she believes that ADHD is misnamed and is not a disorder The importance of a comprehensive strategy. Medication is not enough. Why does she believe that all ADHD women are brilliant at something? What executive function skills are, What ADHD is not ADHD statistics, The fact that the existence and impact of ADHD has been validated for decades by various medical organizations. How ADHD brains are wired for interest not information.
The role of trauma in ADHD The three subtypes of ADHD, The 18 symptoms the DSM uses to diagnose ADHD, What symptoms look like for hyperactivity/combined-type ADHD, What symptoms look like for inattentive ADHD, What presentation of ADHD is seen most often in girls and women, Why ADHD is often missed in girls, Why smart girls struggle more than girls of average intelligence, The positive side of ADHD, The key to living successfully with ADHD. ______________
Resources:
DSM-5 Criteria for ADHD
American Psychiatric Association - Symptoms and Diagnosis
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ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka 
