ADHD in the family: When your child’s diagnosis leads to your own

What happens if your child gets diagnosed with ADHD, and you recognize some of the signs in yourself? Should you get tested? What are the benefits of getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult?  

In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra explore the not-so-uncommon scenario of parents realizing they might have ADHD, too. First, they talk with Jessica Covington, a mom of two who didn’t figure out she had ADHD until her son was diagnosed at age 7.  

Then, the hosts learn more about getting diagnosed as an adult. They talk to Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a clinical psychologist and host of Season 2 of the Understood Explains podcast. Roberto shares why he thinks it’s important for parents (and even grandparents!) to get an evaluation for themselves if they suspect they have ADHD.  

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.  

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.  

Related resources 

• Is ADHD hereditary?
• How ADHD is diagnosed in adults
• Learn more about ADHD diagnosis in adults from Dr. Olivardia on Understood Explains Season 2
• Read Jessica’s story: Being a mom with ADHD is tough, but the journey is still sweet

Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give