Shame often looms large for women with ADHD, influencing self-image and relationships. The discussion delves into how societal expectations exacerbate these feelings. Practical strategies are shared to help women cultivate self-compassion and manage emotional challenges. Listeners are encouraged to confront shame and embrace healthier coping mechanisms. This enlightening conversation fosters understanding and encourages empowerment in navigating ADHD.
Shame profoundly impacts women with ADHD by shaping their self-perception, leading to feelings of inadequacy and social isolation.
Practical strategies such as self-compassion and value-based actions can help women with ADHD effectively combat feelings of shame.
Deep dives
Understanding Shame in ADHD
Shame is a significant emotional burden for many women with ADHD, as it is rooted in feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. This emotion extends beyond specific actions, impacting one's overall self-view, leading individuals to perceive themselves as fundamentally flawed. For example, someone who repeatedly forgets to respond to emails may internalize this behavior, concluding that they are incompetent rather than recognizing their ADHD as a contributing factor. Ultimately, shame can have profound psychological effects, influencing self-esteem and leading to feelings of social isolation.
Consequences of Shame
Shame can result in various negative outcomes, including social withdrawal, impaired relationships, and emotional dysregulation. Individuals may distance themselves from friends due to perceived shortcomings, exacerbating feelings of loneliness. For instance, a person who interrupts during conversations may feel enough shame to avoid social gatherings, missing the connections that actually uplift them. In relationships, shame may prompt defensiveness or anger, leading to further conflicts and a lack of effective communication.
Strategies to Combat Shame
To mitigate the effects of shame, individuals can adopt several practical strategies. Practicing self-compassion enables them to treat themselves kindly during moments of shame, acknowledging that their challenges stem from ADHD instead of personal failings. Engaging in value-based actions, such as volunteering in areas aligned with personal strengths, also promotes a sense of worthiness and connection. Additionally, seeking professional help can provide valuable support and guidance, reinforcing that addressing these feelings is a necessary and worthy pursuit.
Many women with ADHD often feel like they’re constantly fighting against a wave of shame. Whether it’s trying to meet demands at work or in the household, the emotional strain is often hidden beneath the surface.
In this episode, Dr. Monica Johnson explores the unique struggles women with ADHD face in managing shame. Watch as she offers strategies to help ADHD women foster healthier lives.
Understood 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
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