ADHD Women's Wellbeing Podcast

In this engaging discussion, science journalist Lynne Peeples, author of "The Inner Clock," reveals the intricate link between ADHD and sleep. She explains why 78% of individuals with ADHD identify as night owls, delving into genetic factors and modern lifestyle disruptions like artificial light. Practical tips, such as adjusting meal times and minimizing evening light, are shared to enhance sleep quality. Moreover, the conversation highlights unique sleep challenges faced by women with ADHD, especially during hormonal shifts.

Dr. James Kustow, a Consultant Psychiatrist and expert in adult ADHD, dives deep into the vital connections between ADHD, hypermobility, and various health conditions. He discusses the impact of physical symptoms like chronic pain on mental health and highlights the importance of a holistic, integrative approach to treatment. With insights on the complexities of ADHD, especially in women, he advocates for self-advocacy and an understanding of how trauma and hormonal changes can unmask ADHD traits. His innovative 'solo soma' method encourages lifelong self-care.

Dr. Asad Rafi, an ADHD specialist and owner of Sanctum Healthcare, sheds light on the interplay between hormonal changes and ADHD, particularly during puberty. He discusses how estrogen and progesterone fluctuations can impact mood and focus, offering valuable strategies for managing these transitions. The importance of tracking menstrual cycles to tailor treatment plans is emphasized, alongside insights into hormonal treatments. Rafi also highlights how societal misconceptions about ADHD can affect mental health and the necessity for supportive educational environments.

This special Ask the Psych episode of The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast with Dr Asad Raffi, explores the brain health and unique hormonal challenges women face with ADHD – particularly during perimenopause and menopause. We discuss how undiagnosed ADHD can lead to years of frustration and overwhelm that’s often compounded by societal pressures and a lack of awareness in healthcare.In today's episode, you’ll learn…✨ How hormonal changes during menopause intensify ADHD symptoms.✨ The impact of going through life with undiagnosed ADHD.✨ Using sleep, nutrition and exercise to manage ADHD holistically.✨ How self-awareness can help you navigate ADHD more effectively.✨ The importance of tailored strategies – not just medication – to manage ADHD. Takeaways: ADHD management requires a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, medication, and self-awareness. Understanding the impact of sleep quality is crucial for those diagnosed with ADHD. Many women discover their ADHD late in life, often after decades of misdiagnosis. Lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and sleep can significantly influence ADHD symptoms. Self-esteem and confidence issues are common among those with ADHD due to societal pressures and criticisms. It is essential to seek credible information and expert advice when managing ADHD. Timestamps02:01 - Navigating ADHD Awareness and Menopause10:46 - Understanding ADHD: A Holistic Approach13:06 - Using lifestyle changes to manage ADHD18:00 - Navigating ADHD and Self-Esteem21:24 - Potential for MisdiagnosisKate's 'RECLAIM YOUR CALM WORKSHOP'A two-part on-demand workshop introducing the power of EFT tapping to help you break free from emotional overwhelm, calm your ADHD mind, and reclaim your peace – any time, anywhere. Click HERE for more information.Have a look at some of Kate's workshops and free resources here: https://www.adhdwomenswellbeing.co.ukKate Moryoussef is a women’s ADHD Lifestyle and wellbeing coach and EFT practitioner who helps overwhelmed and unfulfilled newly diagnosed ADHD women find more calm, balance, hope, health, compassion, creativity, and clarity. Connect with Dr Asad Rafi here: https://www.sanctumhealthcare.co.uk/Follow the podcast on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_womenswellbeing_pod/Follow Kate on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/kate_moryoussef/Find Kate's resources on ADDitude magazine here: https://www.additudemag.com/?s=kate+moryoussefMentioned in this episode:Gratitude link

Perfectionism can significantly impact women with ADHD, often serving as both a coping mechanism and a source of shame. In today's ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast episode, I speak with Natalie Englander, an accredited senior CBT therapist, about the complexities of perfectionism and its connection to ADHD. Natalie shares her journey of discovering her own ADHD diagnosis at 33 and how her perfectionist tendencies influenced her professional focus. We explore the negative effects of perfectionism, including anxiety and self-criticism, while also discussing how to harness its positive aspects. With practical strategies and a compassionate approach, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to understand and manage their perfectionism more compassionately.Natalie combines her professional experience with her lived experience of ADHD to help women navigate the complexities of perfectionism, self-criticism, and mental health.In this episode, you’ll learn…✨ How ADHD and perfectionism intersect – particularly for women✨ The emotional toll of perfectionism: anxiety, depression and self-criticism✨ Why perfectionism develops – and how it can become a coping mechanism✨ Practical ways to manage perfectionism ✨How to harness the positive aspects of perfectionismTimestamps09.40: The impact of perfectionism on childhood experiences11.43: The connection between ADHD and motherhood24.57: How perfectionism intersects with ADHD31.40: Understanding perfectionism and imposter syndrome40.29: Navigating perfectionism and self-compassionIf you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism or wondered about its connection to ADHD, this insightful episode will help you embrace self-acceptance and self-compassion - and celebrate life's imperfections.Connect with Natalie through her website, or on Instagram. Thank you to our sponsor Sleepypeople.com, who is currently offering 15% off its products to all podcast listeners. Click to learn more and use the discount code Kate15 at the checkout.Thank you to our sponsor Get Dopa who are currently offering 10% off their supplements to all podcast listeners. Click to learn more and use the discount code Kate10 at the checkout.Find Kate's popular online workshops and free resources here.Kate Moryoussef is a women's ADHD lifestyle and wellbeing coach and EFT practitioner who helps overwhelmed and unfulfilled newly diagnosed ADHD women find more calm, balance, hope, health, compassion, creativity and clarity. Follow the podcast on Instagram.Follow Kate on Instagram.Read Kate's articles on ADDitude magazine.Mentioned in this episode:Gratitude link

Dr. Niraj Singh, a consultant psychiatrist with over 20 years in neurodevelopmental psychiatry, discusses the transformative potential of medical cannabis for ADHD. He explains how the endocannabinoid system regulates health and its therapeutic benefits for managing anxiety, mood swings, and sleep issues. Dr. Singh highlights the risks of self-medication and the challenges of accessing medical cannabis in the UK. He advocates for a holistic approach, suggesting cannabis could complement or even replace traditional ADHD medications.

Terry Matlen, an internationally recognized expert on ADHD in women, shares her insights as a psychotherapist and author of "The Queen of Distraction." She discusses the historical misunderstandings surrounding ADHD in women and the critical role of community support. The conversation touches on how life stages affect ADHD symptoms and emphasizes that it’s never too late to embrace one’s identity. With practical coping strategies and personal anecdotes, Terry inspires listeners to reclaim their narratives and navigate life’s challenges.

In a powerful discussion, Abigail Agyei-Jones, a renowned neurodiversity advocate and MBE, shares her journey as a Black woman with ADHD. She addresses the cultural stigmas and systemic barriers that lead to late diagnoses among neurodivergent individuals, particularly in the Black community. Abigail emphasizes the importance of creating neuro-inclusive environments and overcoming internalized ableism. Her insights highlight the need for representation and culturally competent care in mental health, urging for a shift in societal expectations and support for marginalized groups.

Joseph Pack, an ADHD advocate and entrepreneur, shares his inspiring journey from struggling with ADHD to founding Drug Free ADHD. He discusses managing ADHD without medication by incorporating routines, cold water exposure, and meditation into daily life. Joseph emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and community support in the ADHD journey. Listeners learn actionable insights, such as building resilience through morning rituals and the power of personal mantras to combat impulsivity and self-criticism.

In this discussion, Kate welcomes Pearl Lopian, an experienced EFT practitioner and mentor, known for her impactful work in emotional freedom techniques. They dive into the significance of emotional regulation for those with ADHD and the concept of co-regulation in relationships. Pearl shares her journey with EFT and how it can facilitate profound emotional shifts. The duo emphasizes tapping techniques for enhancing self-awareness, managing anxiety, and fostering connections, providing listeners with hope and empowering strategies to reclaim emotional balance.