Recognizing the Hidden Struggles of Inattentive ADHD w/Cynthia Hammer
Oct 16, 2023
auto_awesome
Cynthia Hammer, founder of the Inattentive ADHD Coalition and author of Living with Inattentive ADHD, discusses her journey with a late diagnosis of ADHD. They dispel myths, emphasize early diagnosis, and tackle the hidden struggles of inattentive ADHD. Cynthia also shares insights on self-publishing her memoir and the importance of self-compassion in managing ADHD. Tips include prioritizing one thing at a time for improvement and using social media platforms wisely for ADHD information and support.
ADHD management is a journey, prioritize one improvement at a time.
Social media platforms can provide valuable information and support for individuals with ADHD, but choose reliable sources to avoid misinformation.
Deep dives
Importance of Early Diagnosis for Inattentive ADHD
In this episode, Cynthia Hammer, founder of the Inattentive ADHD Coalition and author of Living with Inattentive ADHD, shares her journey with a late diagnosis of Inattentive ADHD. She highlights the critical lessons she's learned along the way and emphasizes the challenges of recognizing and diagnosing Inattentive ADHD. Cynthia discusses how children with Inattentive ADHD often go undiagnosed, while adults are frequently misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety. She stresses the importance of early diagnosis and the need for screening children before the end of second grade.
Common Misunderstandings about Inattentive ADHD
Cynthia addresses common myths surrounding Inattentive ADHD, including the belief that it is caused by bad parenting or that medication is dangerous or should be a last resort. She also challenges the misconception that only hyperactive boys get diagnosed with ADHD and highlights the prevalence of Inattentive ADHD in both boys and girls. Cynthia emphasizes that individuals with Inattentive ADHD can be intelligent and successful, debunking the notion that ADHD hinders academic achievement or intellectual abilities.
The Need for ADHD Education and Advocacy
Cynthia discusses the importance of educating teachers, doctors, and the general public about Inattentive ADHD. She highlights the challenges of underdiagnosis and the reluctance of school districts and doctors to identify and screen for ADHD. Cynthia emphasizes the need for increased awareness, accurate information, and improved support for individuals with ADHD. She also highlights the role of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram in spreading ADHD awareness and providing valuable resources for the ADHD community.
This week, I’m talking with the founder of the Inattentive ADHD Coalition and author of Living with Inattentive ADHD: Climbing the Circular Staircase of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Cynthia Hammer. In our conversation today, we discuss Cynthia’s journey with a late diagnosis of inattentive ADHD and critical lessons that she’s learned along the way. We also explore the challenges of recognizing ADHD, dispel common myths, and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis. From overcoming critical self-talk to self-publishing her memoir, Cynthia shares valuable insights on living with ADHD and creating a brighter future for those of us in neurodivergent community. Be sure to check out the Inattentive ADHD Coalition and Cynthia's book: Living with Inattentive ADHD: Climbing the Circular Staircase of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Support me on Patreon Feel free to ask me a question on my Contact Page Find the full show note at HackingYourADHD.com/153This Episode's Top Tips
Avoid trying to fix everything at once. Instead, prioritize one thing at a time for improvement. ADHD management is a journey, and gradual progress is key.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be valuable sources of information and support for ADHD. However, be discerning in choosing reliable sources to avoid misinformation.
Focus on becoming aware of your critical self-talk and work replacing negative thoughts with positive self-talk. Self-compassion is crucial for managing ADHD effectively.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode