ADHD Her Way

Summary In this episode of ADHD Her Way, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD during the holiday season. She emphasises the importance of setting boundaries to protect one's energy and mental health amidst family expectations and social commitments. The conversation explores various ADHD archetypes that may emerge during this time and offers practical strategies for managing holiday stress. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to prioritize their wellbeing and create a holiday experience that aligns with their values. Takeaways Boundaries are essential for protecting your energy during the holidays. Practice self-compassion and assertiveness during the season. Remember that your needs are valid and important. Creating a meaningful holiday experience requires aligning with your values. Sound Bites "It's okay to do what feels good to you." "Prioritize your wellbeing as you know." "You can't pull from an empty cup." Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Holiday Season with ADHD 11:14 Coping with the Avoider Mindset 12:56 The People Pleaser's Dilemma 13:44 Embracing Your Unique Christmas Experience 15:08 Outro ADHD Her Way podcast .mp3 ADHD, boundaries, holidays, self-care, emotional overwhelm, family expectations, holiday stress, ADHD archetypes, mental health, Christmas

In this conversation, Johanna Badenhorst and Rebecca Gannon delve into the complexities of neurodiversity, particularly focusing on ADHD and autism. They discuss the phenomenon of post-medication burnout, the importance of collaborative care in managing ADHD, and the often-overlooked connection between chronic illness and neurodivergent conditions. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness of burnout signs, practical steps for recovery, and the role of medication in self-care. They also highlight the necessity of ongoing research and advocacy in the field of neurodiversity. You can find Rebecca Gannon and their services via the website ⁠here⁠ and amazing content via instagram at @kaleidoscopeassessment. If you're interested in joining Johanna's brand new community and support group for ADHD Women go ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here!⁠⁠⁠ Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@johannabadenhorst.com. We love to hear from you! Takeaways Post-medication burnout is a common experience for many individuals with ADHD. Collaborative care is essential for effective ADHD management. Burnout can manifest as decreased tolerance for sensory input and demands. Chronic illnesses often co-occur with ADHD and can exacerbate burnout. Self-care practices are crucial for managing ADHD and preventing burnout. Medication can help with executive functioning but is not a cure-all. Awareness of burnout signs can lead to better management strategies. Pacing oneself after starting medication is vital to avoid burnout. Practical strategies for managing daily tasks can alleviate stress. Ongoing research is needed to better understand neurodiversity and its implications. Sound Bites Chapters00:00Introduction and Background04:56Understanding Post-Medication Burnout13:59The Boom-Bust Cycle of ADHD21:51Chronic Illness and ADHD29:01Strategies for Burnout Recovery43:49Practical Tips for Managing Daily Tasks49:16Outro ADHD Her Way podcast .mp3 keywordsneurodiversity, ADHD, autism, burnout, medication, chronic illness, mental health, collaborative care, self-care, executive functioningsummary

Summary This conversation explores the personal experiences of Sarah Hens (social worker, awesome instagramer, and mother) navigating her Autism & ADHD late-diagnosis. Host and Psychologist Johanna and Sarah discuss the importance of unconditional love, understanding neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed care, and the importance of community support. The speakers share their insights on identity, emotional challenges, and the significance of self-expression in their journeys. You can find Sarah Hens and her amazing content via instagram at @neurodialectical. If you're interested in joining Johanna's brand new community and support group for ADHD Women go ⁠⁠⁠here!⁠ Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@johannabadenhorst.com. We love to hear from you! Takeaways Personal stories provide insight into the complexities of autism. Unconditional love plays a crucial role in emotional well-being. Navigating labels can be challenging but necessary for understanding. Community support is vital for those facing emotional challenges. Self-expression is essential for healing and personal growth. Understanding autism requires patience and empathy. Trauma affects everyone differently, and coping mechanisms vary. The importance of sharing experiences to foster connection. Creating safe spaces for individuals to express themselves is crucial. Emotional challenges are a part of life that can be managed with support. Chapters 00:00n Introduction and Setting 03:25 Sarah's Journey of Self-Discovery and Diagnosis 05:47 The Power of Social Media in Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals 06:46 The Importance of Self-Disclosure in Fostering Acceptance 07:46 Creating Inclusive Communities for Neurodivergent Individuals 22:32 Navigating Relationships After Diagnosis 27:38 Advocating for Accommodations in the Workplace 36:15 Resources for Neurodivergent Individuals 42:15 Challenges of Self-Disclosure 45:29 Outro ADHD Her Way podcast .mp3 Keywords autism, unconditional love, trauma, community support, identity, personal stories, emotional challenges, self-expression

Summary In this conversation, Johanna and Bianca delve into the often-overlooked topic of chronic health conditions, particularly focusing on Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, POTS, and MCAS. Bianca shares her personal experiences with these conditions, highlighting the challenges of medical gaslighting and the importance of self-advocacy. They discuss the connection between neurodivergence and chronic illness, the psychological impact of living with these conditions, and the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to care. The conversation emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body, understanding the nuances of chronic illness, and the resources available for support. To find out more information about Bianca and her practice visit: www.comfortpsychology.com.au or @comfortpsychology on instagram. Your Chronic Illness Resources: The Ehlers-Danlos Society offers a range of information and support resources for EDS and related conditions, including medical guidelines and patient stories. You can explore more via The Ehlers Danlos Society The POTS Foundation provides valuable materials and community support specifically for those with POTS. Also find more POTS resources here. ​ME/CFS & Long-Covid​ ​MCAS Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@johannabadenhorst.com. We love to hear from you! If you're interested in joining our ADHD Her Way community go ⁠here!⁠ Takeaways Chronic health conditions are often misunderstood and under-discussed. Medical gaslighting can severely impact patients' mental health. Self-advocacy is crucial for those with chronic illnesses. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and POTS are commonly misdiagnosed. Neurodivergent individuals often experience higher rates of chronic illness. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for effective management. Listening to your body is key to understanding your health. There are resources available for those seeking support. Trusting your body can help in managing chronic conditions. Education and awareness are vital in the healthcare system. Keywords chronic illness, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, POTS, MCAS, neurodivergence, medical gaslighting, self-advocacy, multidisciplinary care, mental health, chronic pain

In this conversation, Johanna Badenhorst and Tania Attley delve into the complexities of ADHD and PMDD, exploring Tania's personal and professional journey in psychology. They discuss the definition of PMDD, its emotional and psychological symptoms, and its interaction with ADHD and autism. The conversation highlights the importance of management strategies, the role of hormones, and the significance of communication and support networks for individuals experiencing PMDD. Tania emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatment and the value of community and shared experiences in navigating these challenges. keywords ADHD, PMDD, neurodivergence, mental health, emotional regulation, women's health, psychological support, community, trauma, therapytakeaways Tania Attley has over 10 years of experience in psychology, focusing on neurodivergence and trauma. PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that significantly impacts emotional and psychological well-being. There is a strong relationship between PMDD and neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and autism. Many symptoms of PMDD are often overlooked or misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression. Management of PMDD often requires a holistic approach, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and support networks. Communication with partners about PMDD is crucial for understanding and support during difficult phases. Tracking menstrual cycles can help identify patterns and triggers related to PMDD symptoms. Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in PMDD, but it's not about hormonal imbalance. Building a supportive community can provide validation and shared experiences for those with PMDD. Self-advocacy and education about PMDD are essential for individuals seeking help. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PMDD and ADHD 02:24 Tania's Professional Journey and Personal Experience 04:22 Understanding PMDD: Definition and Differences from PMS 06:31 The Spectrum of PMDD: Severity and Symptoms 09:08 The Interaction of PMDD with ADHD and Autism 11:25 Current Treatment Options and Management Strategies 12:13 The Role of Community and Support Networks 12:54 The Importance of Tracking Cycles and Hormonal Awareness 15:38 Psychological Strategies for Managing PMDD 18:14 The Impact of Lifestyle on PMDD Symptoms 20:55 Navigating Relationships During PMDD 23:18 Final Thoughts and Resources for PMDD Support

In this episode, Johanna talks with clinical psychologist Kirstin Bouse about the intersection of menopause and ADHD. They explore the often-overlooked symptoms that women experience during perimenopause, how hormonal changes impact mental health, and the overlap between ADHD and menopausal symptoms. Kirstin shares practical lifestyle changes and self-care strategies, emphasizing the importance of education and support for women during this phase. The episode also touches on the benefits of menopause hormone therapy as part of a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms.You can find Kirsten on: @allabouthercentre and Allabouthercentre.com.auKey words: menopause, perimenopause, ADHD, mental health, hormone therapy, women's health, self-care, psychological support, lifestyle changes, education summary Key take aways: Perimenopause can begin in your late 30s. Many women experience significant symptoms during perimenopause. Hormonal changes can greatly impact mental health and well-being. ADHD symptoms can overlap with perimenopausal symptoms. Education about menopause is crucial for both women and healthcare providers. Lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of perimenopause. Menopause hormone therapy can alleviate many symptoms. Self-care is essential during this transitional phase. Women often feel lost during perimenopause due to hormonal changes. Support from informed professionals can make a significant difference.

Summary In this conversation, Johanna discusses the intersection of ADHD and imposter syndrome, particularly focusing on the experiences of women. She highlights the internal struggles faced by those with ADHD, the societal pressures that lead to masking behaviors, and the importance of self-identification in the journey towards understanding and managing ADHD. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-validation and the challenges of seeking external support, while also addressing the unique experiences of women diagnosed later in life. Takeaways - ADHD Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by those with ADHD. - Many women experience a significant internal struggle with ADHD, often feeling like they are paddling hard beneath the surface. - Imposter syndrome can lead individuals to doubt their own experiences and struggles with ADHD. - Masking symptoms is common among women with ADHD due to societal pressures. - Perfectionism can delay diagnosis and exacerbate feelings of inadequacy. - Self-identification with ADHD is valid and important, even without a formal diagnosis. - Seeking help is a crucial step towards empowerment and self-acceptance. - Women often report higher levels of imposter syndrome, especially with late ADHD diagnoses. - The journey of understanding ADHD can be validating and empowering with the right support. - Trusting one's own feelings and experiences is essential in the journey of managing ADHD. Chapters 00:00 Understanding ADHD and Imposter Syndrome 03:31 The Masking Dilemma in Women with ADHD 07:59 Perfectionism and Its Impact on Diagnosis 09:26 Self-Validation vs. External Proof 12:42 Empowerment Through Self-Identification 13:54 Outro

In this episode of ADHD Her Way, Johanna sits down with Amy Sketcher, a psychologist specialising in neurodivergence in children and adolescents. Amy works with kids aged 3 to 12, and explains how she uses play therapy as a non-directive, therapeutic tool to help them navigate challenges. She shares how ADHD can present differently depending on age—younger children may exhibit hyperactivity and impulsivity, while older kids and teens may face struggles with inattention, time management, and anxiety. Amy and Johanna emphasise the unmet potential of kids with ADHD and the impact of their struggles with self-esteem and expectations. The conversation also delves into the coexistence of ADHD and specific learning disorders (SLD), highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and intervention to better support children and families. They tackle common misconceptions about ADHD, and Amy shares practical advice on the supports parents and schools can provide, including accommodations, targeted interventions, and helpful resources. You can find Amy Sketcher here: https://www.seasonsalliedhealth.com/about-us⁠ and @amysketcher_psychologist! Also check out their brand new resources and upcoming training and workshops. Follow @adhdwithjohannab and contact us via hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au. We love to hear from you! Also visit: ⁠⁠www.holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au⁠⁠ to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me. Key takeaways: ADHD presents differently depending on age—younger kids may show hyperactivity and impulsivity, while older children and teens may struggle more with inattention and anxiety. Play therapy is a powerful tool for helping younger children express and process emotions. Kids with ADHD often have unmet potential and face self-esteem challenges, but early diagnosis and intervention can unlock their abilities. ADHD and specific learning disorders (SLD) often coexist, making it crucial to provide tailored support at home and in school. Misconceptions about ADHD still persist, but parents and schools can play a significant role in offering accommodations and targeted interventions. Sound Bites "Play therapy is where toys become the words and play is the language of communication" "Kids with ADHD often have unmet potential and struggle to meet expectations" "Kids with ADHD often say things they don't mean in heightened emotional states" "All Dogs Have ADHD book great because I can use it with reading the book and also real life examples of things that Augie does that are very ADHD" "The Rainbow Brain and The Brain Forest are great, not just for those who are neurodivergent, but all kids, because it gives a bit of an introduction to what different neurotypes look like" "Tracy Moroney's picture books that talk about feelings and how to manage them can be helpful in understanding their feelings and emotions"

In this conversation, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the importance of embracing opportunities, celebrating small wins, and the impact of positive reinforcement on mental health, particularly for those with ADHD. She reflects on her podcast journey, cultural perspectives on achievement, and practical ways to practice gratitude and self-compassion. The conversation emphasizes the need for neurodivergent individuals to recognise their accomplishments and foster self-esteem,trust and confidence. Takeaways ADHD minds can achieve remarkable things through hyper-fixation. Celebrating small wins is crucial for self-esteem and motivation. Positive reinforcement can significantly impact mental health. Reflecting on achievements helps build confidence and identity. Cultural attitudes towards success can affect self-perception. Gratitude practices can enhance overall well-being. Self-compassion is essential for overcoming self-criticism. Recognizing small accomplishments fosters resilience. Creating a reward system can motivate progress. Practicing gratitude regularly reinforces positive thinking. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Small Wins 01:38 Reflection on Podcast Journey 05:26 Cultural Perspectives on Achievement 08:46 The Link Between Gratitude and Celebration 12:36 Practical Strategies for Celebrating Wins 18:31 Outro ADHD Her Way podcast .mp3

Summary In this conversation, Johanna interviews Amanda Moses, a psychologist who specializes in ADHD and autism assessments for adults. They discuss Amanda's background and passion for this work, the importance of self-care for professionals in the helping profession, the process of diagnosing ADHD and autism, the misconceptions and overlap between the two conditions, and the challenges faced by individuals with high masking or internalized presentations. Strategies for managing ADHD and autism are discussed, including building compensatory strategies, embracing strengths, and practicing self-compassion. The conversation also addresses the misconception that trauma can explain ADHD and autism, emphasizing the need for accurate diagnosis and appropriate support. The importance of preventing and managing autistic burnout is highlighted, along with the value of understanding and accommodating sensory issues. For Amanda's clinical resources use the code 'johannabadenhor' for a discount. https://www.amandamosespsychology.com.au/clinicalresources Also check her out on Instagram and Tiktok @amandamosespsychology Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@johannabadenhorst.com. We love to hear from you! If you're interested in joining our ADHD Her Way community go here! Keywords ADHD, autism, assessment, diagnosis, high masking, internalized presentation, misconceptions, overlap, psychologists, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, contradictory traits, identification, managing, compensatory strategies, strengths, self-compassion, trauma, autistic burnout, sensory issues Takeaways Psychologists specializing in ADHD and autism assessments for adults should stay up to date with research and guidelines to provide accurate and affirming assessments. Transparency about the assessment process and fees is important for both psychologists and psychiatrists. High masking or internalized presentations of ADHD and autism may not display stereotypical observable traits, but individuals still experience the same constellation of traits internally. ADHD and autism are distinct neurotypes that often coexist, and it is important to assess both together to provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual's experiences. Misconceptions and stereotypes about ADHD and autism can lead to misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis, and it is crucial to seek information from individuals with lived experience. Cognitive assessments, such as intelligence tests, are not necessary for diagnosing ADHD in adults and may perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Psychologists have a responsibility to provide assessments that are relevant and necessary, and to avoid exploitative practices. The DSM-5 allows for the diagnosis of both ADHD and autism, and many individuals may have been previously misdiagnosed or undiagnosed due to the previous guidelines. Living with both ADHD and autism can feel like living with two different paradoxes, as the two conditions have distinct characteristics and experiences. ADHD and autism have contradictory traits that can make identification and understanding challenging. Strategies for managing ADHD include building compensatory strategies, embracing strengths, and practicing self-compassion. The misconception that trauma can explain ADHD and autism should be challenged, and accurate diagnosis and appropriate support are crucial. Preventing and managing autistic burnout is important, and understanding and accommodating sensory issues is essential. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:19 Passion for ADHD and Autism Assessments 06:42 Challenges of High Masking and Internalized Presentations 11:59 Co-Occurrence of ADHD and Autism 21:03 Misconceptions and Overlap between ADHD and Autism 24:38 Living with Contradictory Neurotypes 25:07 The Challenges of Identifying Autism and ADHD 44:08 Strategies for Managing and Thriving 49:26 Embracing Neurodiversity