Climbing the Walls

Danielle Elliot, a health and science journalist from New York, takes listeners behind the scenes of her investigative work on ADHD in women. She discusses the alarming rise in ADHD diagnoses among women, particularly during the pandemic. The conversation delves into the dual nature of ADHD, presenting both struggles and unique strengths. Danielle reveals the evolutionary benefits of ADHD and emphasizes the importance of community support, sharing personal experiences that highlight the transformative impact of understanding and acceptance.

Danielle Elliot, a documentarian and science journalist, shares her personal ADHD diagnosis journey. She discusses how a recent breakup prompted her to confront rejection sensitivity and emotional struggles tied to her ADHD. Danielle delves into the complexities of navigating personal relationships and professional feedback as a woman with ADHD, especially during the pandemic. Her reflective storytelling highlights the need for individualized treatment and connection among those experiencing similar challenges.

The podcast dives into the significant yet often overlooked connection between hormones and ADHD in women. It shares personal stories highlighting the frustrations women face as they navigate ADHD alongside hormonal changes, particularly during puberty and menopause. Experts call for more targeted research to examine these fluctuations and their impact on symptoms. The discussion emphasizes personalized treatment approaches and the need to address the unique experiences of women with ADHD, challenging traditional perceptions and advocating for greater awareness.

At an ADHD camp in Michigan, women share their stories of being diagnosed later in life. Common threads emerge, revealing a battle against the ADHD tax and emotional complexities of seeking help. Discussions touch on the importance of awareness and connection, particularly among women, and why it’s crucial to address ADHD in underserved communities. The impact of hormonal changes during perimenopause on symptoms is also highlighted, showcasing the unique challenges faced by women. A journey towards self-discovery and community support unfolds, emphasizing empathy and understanding.

ADHD finds itself at the center of mental health discourse, and some see it not as a disorder but as a strength. Danielle investigates the origins of this theory and questions who benefits from the rebranding of ADHD.More on this story: What does “thriving” with ADHD actually look like?The myth of the ADHD “superpower”For a transcript and more resources, visit the episode page on Understood.org. 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

B.A. Parker, a Baltimore radio host, shares her enlightening journey with ADHD, emphasizing how social media, especially TikTok, transformed her experience with the condition. She discusses the surge of ADHD awareness among women during the pandemic and the challenges of seeking accurate diagnoses, particularly for Black women. Parker highlights the role of digital platforms in fostering community and validation, while addressing the risks of misdiagnosis in the digital age. Ultimately, she reflects on how perceptions of ADHD are shifting from affliction to strength.

Sari Solden was looking for answers. Why was she having memory issues? Why couldn’t she get her life organized? Where did this feeling of deep shame come from?Sari’s books have changed the lives of generations of women with ADHD. Her early research uncovered the truth that the disorder looks different in women.More on this story:A history of ADHD medicationsADHD and shameADHD symptoms in womenFor a transcript of this episode and more resources, visit the Climbing the Walls episode page on Understood. 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

Emily Mitchell, a pioneering graphic designer diagnosed with ADHD in 1963, shares her unique journey with the condition. She discusses the rise of ADHD diagnoses among women, particularly during the pandemic, and the evolution of perceptions surrounding it. Drawing from her own experiences, Emily highlights the challenges of balancing her creative career with family life. Her insights delve into the historical biases that have often overlooked women’s symptoms, shedding light on the emotional complexities of living with ADHD.

From Understood.org, Climbing the Walls is an investigative limited-series podcast that explores why women were historically underdiagnosed with ADHD — and how the recent surge in diagnoses is reshaping our understanding of ADHD.Join host Danielle Elliot, a health and science journalist, as she digs into the recent rise of ADHD diagnoses among women. She weaves scientific insights with personal stories — including her own. Through candid conversations with mental health experts and women who’ve been through it, Danielle starts getting answers to some of her big questions around the surge in ADHD diagnoses, like: Why women? And why now? 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