MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel

Some women with ADHD turn to self-medicating to cope with their symptoms. At first, it may seem to help. But over time, it can make ADHD harder to manage.In this episode, Dr. Monica Johnson explains self-medicating and breaks down why some women with ADHD turn to it. Find out how self-medicating can be harmful and what healthier ways to cope might look like.Related resourcesTips from an ADHD Coach: Coping skills with consequencesExperts weigh in: Marijuana and ADHDMissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women ChannelTimestamps(00:59) What does self-medicating look like?(02:34) Ways self-medicating can be harmful (07:53) Healthier ways to cope with ADHDFor a transcript and more resources, visit the MissUnderstood channel page on Understood.org. We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at podcast@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

On this very special episode of Hyperfocus, host Rae Jacobson interviews three of these women — Sari Solden, Terry Matlen, and Dr. Ellen Littman — along with Dr. Michelle Frank, a psychologist taking up the torch for a new generation. Together, they discuss how they met, their journey to legitimize ADHD in women, and what they hope for the future. Related resources:Climbing the WallsMissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women ChannelTimestamps:(06:22) Discovering you aren’t alone(13:18) The disconnect between academia and the rest of the world(21:22) The benefits of treatment and community (28:05) ADHD isn’t always a superpowerFor a transcript and more resources, visit the Hyperfocus page on Understood.org. We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at hyperfocus@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

Explore the intriguing contradictions of ADHD and how they affect behavior and emotions. Discover the role of dopamine in focus and motivation, and how these elements contribute to feelings of inconsistency. Tune in for practical insights on recognizing behavioral patterns and strategies for enhancing reliability. Personal stories illustrate the complex dance between social anxiety and the desire for connection, highlighting the power of self-awareness in managing it all.

In this insightful talk, self-care and ADHD coach Stephanie Antoine shares her journey in helping caregivers navigate the unique challenges of supporting loved ones while managing ADHD. Stephanie discusses the emotional complexities like frustration and guilt that often arise in caregiving roles. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and self-care practices to counter burnout and perfectionism. Listeners will also find a brief guided meditation exercise to aid in recentering amidst daily stress. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone balancing caregiving with their own mental health.

In this episode, Dr. Monica Johnson dives into how ADHD makes setting boundaries difficult. Listen as she breaks down why women with ADHD often struggle to say no. And get simple strategies to help protect your peace and improve your mental health.Related resourcesADHD and: OversharingSetting boundaries in relationships with ADHDTips from an ADHD Coach: People-pleasing everyone but ourselvesTimestamps(01:43) How ADHD affects setting boundaries (04:18) Why setting boundaries is a challenge for some women with ADHD(06:28) Strategies for setting boundaries For a transcript and more resources, visit the MissUnderstood page on Understood.org. We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at podcast@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

Join health and science journalist Danielle Elliot as she investigates the rise of women recently diagnosed with ADHD. Listen to Climbing the Walls now.In honor of Mother’s Day weekend, we’re sharing an episode of our sibling podcast from Understood.org, ADHD Aha! The episode features our very own Rae Jacobson and, appropriately, it’s a conversation about motherhood. More specifically, it’s about being a mom (and a woman) with ADHD. Hope you enjoy, and see you in two weeks.  What makes being a mom with ADHD so hard? Navigating executive functions and emotional labor, for one. And feeling burned out when burnout isn’t an option — because there’s always something else that needs your very limited attention!Talking about it with someone who just “gets it” is such a relief. In this episode, Laura talks to her friend and colleague Rae Jacobson, also a mom with ADHD. Listen to their conversation and insights on this bonus Mother’s Day episode.Related resourcesRolling with my ADHD Mom BrainBuilding self-compassion skills3 things I’m learning as a new mom with ADHDTo get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.We’d love to hear from you. Email us at hyperfocus@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

Discuss the emotional complexities of sharing an ADHD diagnosis with loved ones. Explore the fears and anxieties many face during these conversations. Learn effective strategies for fostering understanding and compassion from friends and family. Highlights the importance of preparation and emotional readiness before diving into these discussions. Personal anecdotes illuminate the struggles and triumphs of navigating these sensitive topics, ensuring that sharing your journey is a meaningful experience.

Stefani Goerlich, an author and forensic sexologist specializing in supporting kinky individuals, discusses the intersection of BDSM and ADHD. She highlights how BDSM practices can provide structure, sensory input, and improved communication, making them particularly beneficial for neurodivergent individuals. The conversation covers common misconceptions about kink, the importance of consent, and how negotiating power dynamics can foster connection. Stefani delves into how rituals in kink can help with focus and emotional regulation, making it a valuable tool in relationships.

Exploring the unique challenges women with ADHD face when seeking help, this conversation highlights the struggles of perfectionism and executive dysfunction. Experts offer practical strategies to gradually build confidence in asking for assistance. The importance of human connection shines through, encouraging listeners to share their stories and support one another. Discover how reaching out can lead to real relief and camaraderie, breaking the cycle of isolation.

The discussion dives into the unique career challenges faced by individuals with ADHD, exploring the urge to shift jobs frequently. It highlights the link between dopamine and job excitement, and how this can lead to burnout. Listeners learn about the emotional rollercoaster of career changes, from initial enthusiasm to eventual dissatisfaction. Strategies for fostering fulfillment and growth within current roles are also shared, emphasizing the importance of communication and exploring challenges beyond work.