

talkADHD
Matt Gupwell
talkADHDA podcast about ADHD and all things connected.Hosted by Matt Gupwell, owner of ThinkNeurodiversity.co.uk Matt is a Neurodiversity professional, Professional keynote speaker, Consultant and ADHD Mentor to others looking for support in navigating their own ADHD.The podcast is in partnership with divergenceuk.org/It's cohosted by Andrew Jay. Senior ADHD Nurse practitioner, and co-owner of the Divergence clinic.He's a world respected ADHD expert and professional and regular teaches other clinical professionals what they need to know about ADHD and other coexisting conditions.Our aim is to be evidence led, providing links, references and resources for our viewers and listeners to continue their own research after each episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 29, 2024 • 55min
ADHD and Menopause
This episode explores the connections between menopause and neurodiversity, particularly ADHD and autism. The guest, Diane Porterville-Born, shares her personal experiences and professional insights as a menopause nurse practitioner. She discusses how she started connecting menopause with neurodiversity and the implications for treatment. Diane highlights the lack of awareness and misconceptions surrounding menopause and neurodivergent women. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and seeking support from healthcare professionals. Diane also discusses her involvement in research and the need for changes in how the medical community addresses the needs of neurodivergent individuals during menopause. In this conversation, Diane discusses holistic approaches to menopause, including the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and positive mental attitudes. She emphasizes that while hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective treatment, it is not the only option. Diane highlights the significance of nutrition and lifestyle changes, such as consuming foods rich in phytoestrogens and maintaining a healthy weight. She also advises seeking advice from reputable menopause services and cautioning against misinformation found online. Additionally, Diane emphasizes the importance of support from friends and professionals and encourages women not to be afraid of HRT, as it is safe and effective for most individuals. Takeaways Menopause and neurodiversity, such as ADHD and autism, are interconnected and can significantly impact women's mental health and well-being. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for women with neurodivergence during menopause, as it can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall functioning. There is a lack of awareness and understanding among healthcare professionals about the specific needs of neurodivergent women during menopause. Women should educate themselves, keep track of their symptoms, and advocate for their own needs when seeking support from healthcare professionals. Further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between menopause and neurodiversity and to improve the understanding and treatment of these conditions. Chapters Introduction and Background 01:46 Connecting Menopause with Neurodiversity 04:46Implications for Treatment 06:49 Lack of Awareness and Misconceptions 11:57 Challenges in Seeking Help 19:26 Recognizing the Impact of Menopause 20:12 Joining the Dots: Case Examples 29:26 Understanding the Ups and Downs 32:38 Shared Care and Treatment Approach 35:40 Advice for Neurodivergent Women 37:49 Current Research and Future Changes 42:59 Addressing the Needs of Neurodivergent Individuals 46:21 Recognizing Overwhelm and Burnout 50:53 Holistic Approaches to Menopause 52:29 Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes 53:18 Seeking Professional Advice 54:14 Importance of Support and HRT TALKADHD Whatsapp commuinity: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BITcSG1BRlCIZvGUFCGxU7 Diane Porterfield-Bourne's links: www.bourne2care.co.ukhttp://www.facebook.com/bourne2carehttp://www.instagram.com/dianeporterfield_bourne linkedin.com/in/diane-porterfield-bourne-013471104 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 22, 2024 • 1h 5min
ADHD and Employment Law
SummaryIn this episode, Matt is joined by Mandy Orlak, a specialist in employment law and disability. They discuss the legal aspects of having a disability, including the definition of disability, the process of disclosing a disability to employers, and the importance of reasonable adjustments. They also cover common misconceptions about reasonable adjustments, the role of education in employment law, and how employment law can protect disabled individuals from discrimination and unfair treatment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding between employers and employees, as well as the benefits of training and education for employers.TakeawaysUnderstanding the legal definition of disability is crucial for individuals with neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and autism.Disclosure of a disability to employers is not legally required, but it may be beneficial for future protection.Reasonable adjustments are accommodations that employers should provide to overcome disadvantages faced by employees with disabilities.Training and education for employers can help create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for disabled individuals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Law and Disability06:50 Legal Definition of Disability11:55 Disclosure of Disability to Employers17:01 Reasonable Adjustments26:36 Education and Employment Law29:36 Protection from Discrimination and Unfair Treatment34:47 Steps to Take if Unfairly Treated or Discriminated Against40:19 Preparing for Legal Disputes44:50 Importance of Documentation52:11 The Benefits of Training and Education53:52 Top Tips for Employers and EmployeesTALKADHD Whatsapp commuinity: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BITcSG1BRlCIZvGUFCGxU7 Talem Law website: http://talemlaw.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 15, 2024 • 57min
ADHD and co-existing conditions
Summary In this episode, Matt and Andrew discuss coexisting conditions with ADHD. They emphasize that coexisting conditions are not add-ons to ADHD but rather part of being human. The most common coexisting conditions include other neurodevelopmental conditions, affective disorders, psychosis, and physical health problems. The impact of these conditions on ADHD management varies, and it is important to consider the interplay between different diagnoses. The diagnostic process should take into account all possible coexisting conditions, and it is helpful for individuals to volunteer relevant information. In addition to medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can be beneficial in managing coexisting conditions. Matt highlights the importance of understanding oneself and finding supportive communities to navigate the challenges of ADHD and coexisting conditions. In this episode, Matt and Andrew discuss the importance of defining purpose and ability rather than being defined by deficits. They emphasize that a diagnosis is a starting point, not an end point, and that it is important to remember the human experience beyond the label. They also explore the concept of self-advocacy and the correct way to define oneself and talk about conditions to ensure protection against discrimination. The conversation touches on the interplay of coexisting conditions and the challenges of supporting loved ones with ADHD. Ultimately, they highlight the importance of prioritizing the person over the diagnosis. Takeaways Coexisting conditions are not add-ons to ADHD but part of being human. The most common coexisting conditions with ADHD include other neurodevelopmental conditions, affective disorders, psychosis, and physical health problems. The impact of coexisting conditions on ADHD management varies, and it is important to consider the interplay between different diagnoses. The diagnostic process should take into account all possible coexisting conditions, and individuals should volunteer relevant information. In addition to medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can be beneficial in managing coexisting conditions. Understanding oneself and finding supportive communities are important for navigating the challenges of ADHD and coexisting conditions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 01:08 Understanding Coexisting Conditions 03:44 The Relationship with ADHD 04:47 Categories of Coexisting Conditions 08:33 Examples of Coexisting Conditions 11:14 Impact on ADHD Management 18:13 Diagnostic Process for Coexisting Conditions21:59 Effectiveness of ADHD Medications 23:20 Importance of Volunteering Information30:20 Long-Term Outlook and Health Implications 37:44 Additional Strategies Coaching and Mentoring 44:30 Understanding Oneself and Building Strategies 48:11 Baggage from Diagnostic Process 51:04 The Function of Diagnosis 54:14 Self-Advocacy and Talking About Conditions 56:28 Coexisting Conditions and Interplay 58:07 Supporting Loved Ones with ADHD 59:27 Negotiating Advice for Caregivers 01:00:25 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 8, 2024 • 1h 44min
How to take control of your ADHD
Exploring how to take control of ADHD, Matt and Andrew dive into the importance of personal understanding and emotional management. They discuss the interplay of anxiety, cortisol levels, and executive function, advocating for a personalized approach to coping strategies. Listeners are encouraged to experiment with different methods, like cold showers for anxiety relief. The conversation also highlights the challenges of time blindness and the need for better decision-making tools. Ultimately, they stress the significance of self-awareness, support, and ownership in managing ADHD.

Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 29min
What does a Good ADHD assessment look like?
his podcast episode discusses what a good assessment for ADHD looks like and how to determine the quality of an assessment report. The conversation explores the diagnostic criteria for ADHD and the importance of a conversation-based assessment rather than a tick-box exercise. The episode also addresses the challenges of history taking, the complexity of assessing childhood symptoms, and the high rates of comorbidity with other conditions. The role of scaffolding and support in hiding symptoms is discussed, as well as the impact of symptoms on functioning. This part of the conversation explores the concepts of impairment and functioning in relation to ADHD diagnosis. It discusses the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life. The importance of detailed assessment reports and the need for comprehensive information gathering is emphasized. The conversation also delves into the misunderstandings surrounding shared care agreements and the importance of ongoing support and guidance after diagnosis. The chapter concludes with key points to consider in the assessment process and after receiving a diagnosis of ADHD. In this episode, Matt and Andrew discuss the emotional impact of going through the ADHD assessment process and receiving a diagnosis. They explore the uncovering of suppressed emotions and the after-effects of the diagnosis. The conversation delves into the challenges of accepting a disability and reevaluating one's past experiences. They emphasize the importance of finding a supportive community and the pervasive nature of ADHD in one's life. The episode concludes with a reminder that it's okay for ADHD to be difficult and a call to join the ADHD community. Takeaways A good assessment for ADHD involves a conversation-based approach that explores the individual's experiences and symptoms in various settings. Assessments should consider the impact of symptoms on functioning and the presence of coexisting conditions. History taking should be comprehensive and include information about childhood experiences and the individual's mental and physical health. The quality of an assessment report can be determined by the depth of exploration of symptoms and the relationships between different diagnoses. Scaffolding and support from parents or caregivers should be considered in the assessment process, as they may hide symptoms and impairments. 00:00 Introduction and Community Announcement 01:30 What Does a Good Assessment Look Like? 05:27 Response to Panorama Documentary 09:30 Understanding the Diagnostic Criteria 13:01 The Importance of a Conversation-Based Assessment 24:41 The Complexity of History Taking 32:45 The Challenges of Comprehensive Assessments 40:31Assessing Symptoms in Multiple Settings 45:11 The Role of Scaffolding and Support 50:19 ADHD as a Spectrum 56:22 Misunderstandings about Shared Care58:02 The Journey After Diagnosis 01:02:14 The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis 01:05:14 The Value of a Comprehensive Assessment Report 01:13:43 The Need for Guidance After Diagnosis 01:32:00 The Impact of Diagnosis 01:34:18 Identity and Disability 01:35:17 Finding Your Tribe 01:38:02 Wrap-up and Community UKAAN Document: https://bjgp.org/content/73/735/473 TALKADHD Whatsapp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JR8R8jTl5zY0jr8MzXjIE7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 18, 2024 • 1h 31min
ADHD and romantic relationships - Melissa Orlov, ADHD Marriage
00:00 Introduction to the Topic of Relationships 06:44 Melissa Orlov's Journey into ADHD and Relationships 13:26 The Impact of ADHD on Relationships 19:57 The Hyperfocus Courtship Phase 27:05 Misdiagnosis and ADHD 32:18 The Impact of ADHD on Relationships 40:09 Managing ADHD in Dual-ADHD Couples 46:12 The Destructive Interaction 51:23 Intentions vs. Outcomes 56:21 Getting Treatment and Rebuilding Relationships 01:04:09 Building Accountability and Connection 01:09:28 Rekindling Emotional Connection 01:20:09 Key Takeaways: Communication and Individual Responsibility 01:25:09 Hope for Relationships Impacted by ADHD In this episode, Matt and Andrew discuss the impact of ADHD on romantic relationships with guest Melissa Orlov, an expert in ADHD and relationships. They explore topics such as the hyperfocus courtship phase, misdiagnosis of ADHD, and the challenges faced by couples where both partners have ADHD. Melissa emphasizes the importance of understanding ADHD and its impact on relationships, as well as the need for both partners to take responsibility for managing their symptoms. She also discusses the role of anxiety in relationships and offers strategies for managing ADHD in dual-ADHD couples. In this episode, Melissa Orlov discusses the impact of ADHD on relationships and provides strategies for managing the challenges. She emphasizes the importance of open communication, understanding intentions vs. outcomes, and addressing parent-child dynamics. Melissa also discusses the role of medication and the need for treatment and counseling. She highlights the need for multiple strategies and the importance of rekindling emotional connection. Overall, Melissa offers hope for couples impacted by ADHD and encourages individuals to take responsibility for their own actions and seek support. Open communication and understanding intentions vs. outcomes are key in managing the impact of ADHD on relationships. Addressing parent-child dynamics and building accountability are important steps in rebuilding relationships. Medication and treatment can play a role in managing ADHD symptoms and improving reliability. Couples may benefit from counseling and support to navigate the challenges of ADHD in their relationship. Rekindling emotional connection and engaging in new and interesting activities together can help rebuild intimacy. Multiple strategies and ongoing experimentation are necessary for managing ADHD and its impact on relationships. Individuals should take responsibility for their own actions and seek support to improve their relationship. Links to Melissa's work: ADHD & Marriage couples seminar, given by Zoom...next live session starts Feb 13, 2024 ADHDmarriage.com (for free treatment ebook download) Support groups for non-ADHD partners sessions open up at intervals across the year. The ADHD Effect on marriage: (UK Link) https://www.amazon.co.uk/ADHD-Effect-Marriage-Relationship-Assertiveness/dp/1886941971/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2819D5BVJB0F9&keywords=melissa+orlov&qid=1705518672&sprefix=melissa+or%2Caps%2C58&sr=8-2 The Couples guide to ADHD: (UK Link): https://www.amazon.co.uk/COUPLES-GUIDE-THRIVING-MELISSA-ORLOV/dp/193776110X/ref=pd_sbs_d_sccl_2_1/262-1055712-9949067?pd_rd_w=GkckV&content-id=amzn1.sym.f5d177b3-9290-4c61-8b0e-06b08cdd933f&pf_rd_p=f5d177b3-9290-4c61-8b0e-06b08cdd933f&pf_rd_r=P27VDPZDE1FE76EKEDD2&pd_rd_wg=R8t2t&pd_rd_r=3354614a-0fdf-4469-88ba-152ab88d5326&pd_rd_i=193776110X&psc=1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 14, 2024 • 1h 51min
2023 a year in review
In this episode, Matt and Andrew reflect on the events of 2023 and how it shaped their perspectives on neurodiversity and neurodivergence. They discuss the frustrations and investigations they faced in the first quarter of the year, including their involvement in a BBC investigation on ADHD assessments. They also share their experiences of contract termination and the challenges of whistleblowing. As they navigate through April and May, they discuss the launch of their own clinical service and the uncertainty surrounding the airing of the Panorama episode. Overall, they highlight the importance of speaking out and advocating for change in the face of adversity. This part of the conversation covers the challenges of starting a business, balancing personal and professional life, recognition in the ADHD community, backlash from the documentary, involvement in the World Congress, personal backlash and misunderstandings, learning to hold tongue and manage responses, difficulties in running the business, resonating with Andrew's honesty, gaining confidence and using AI for fact-checking, medication shortages and their impact on the ADHD community, considering closing the business, and increasing passion and commitment. In this episode, Andrew Jay and Matt discuss various themes related to personal growth, authenticity, and the importance of understanding different perspectives. Andrew shares his experience of feeling patronized and the frustration of being labeled a victim. They also discuss the significance of strong principles and the need to choose battles wisely. The conversation delves into the nature of truth and the importance of remaining hopeful. Andrew emphasizes the value of taking a step back and approaching situations with grace and open-mindedness. They conclude by highlighting the importance of being comfortable in one's own skin and spreading messages of change and understanding.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage03:13 January to March 2023: Frustrations and Investigations13:13 March 2023: Contract Termination and Whistleblowing18:24 April to May 2023: Uncertainty and Launching the Service44:36 April to May 2023: Panorama and Divergence49:05 Challenges of Starting a Business50:06 Balancing Personal and Professional Life51:03 Recognition in the ADHD Community52:34 Maintaining a Low Profile53:36 Backlash from the Documentary56:00 Involvement in the World Congress57:57 Personal Backlash and Misunderstandings01:01:06 Learning to Hold Tongue and Manage Responses01:03:17 Difficulties in Running the Business01:05:09 Building Trust and Honest Conversations01:09:41 Resonating with Andrew's Honesty01:12:42 Gaining Confidence and Using AI for Fact-Checking01:17:28 Medication Shortages and Impact on ADHD Community01:21:26 Considering Closing the Business01:26:14 Increasing Passion and Commitment01:32:28 Impact of Medication Shortages01:36:18 Feeling Patronized01:37:09 Being a Victim01:37:52 Personal Growth and Grounding01:38:54 Choosing Battles and Adversaries01:39:52 Strong Principles01:41:14 The Nature of Truth01:43:18 Remaining Hopeful01:44:09 Taking a Step Back01:44:46 Approaching 202301:45:25 Take What You Need and Leave the Rest01:46:13 Being Comfortable in Your Own Skin01:47:46 Wanting Things to Change01:48:29 Evolution of Understanding01:48:58 Gratitude for Honesty01:49:55 Spreading the Message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 3, 2024 • 1h 30min
Is having ADHD harder for Women?
Why bring a woman with ADHD is harder?0:00 Introduction 4:29 Endochrinology and the science bit 10:25 The female hormone journey 15:42 Why ADHD research doesn't suit women? ADHD 28:26 What does a good assessment look like for a woman? 42:50 Is it hormones or ADHD? 54:45 Should people provide extra info at assessment? 1:08:40 Should teachers know more about ADHD and girls? 1:15:50 We're not radical feminists, we're just being heard! 1:21:53 Final wordsIn this episode Matt and Andrew are joined by Sara Jay, Senior ADHD nurse, mom, wife to Andrew and late diagnosed ADHD'er and Elaine Travers, a former corporate exec who left her career of over 20 years as her struggles with perimenopause took grip and who this year recieved her diagnosis of ADHD. References: The Goddess research: The GODDESS ADHD research project focuses on understanding and improving the care for women with ADHD. This project emphasizes gender-informed research to address diagnostic delays and emotional dysregulation in female ADHD through self-awareness and self-efficacy【7†source】. Studies in this area highlight that females with ADHD often exhibit different symptom profiles, comorbidities, and functional impacts compared to males, necessitating a better understanding and tailored approaches in healthcare【8†source】【17†source】.Epidemiological research from the GODDESS ADHD group reveals that females with ADHD, compared to unaffected females and/or same-aged males, face increased risks such as higher rates of teenage deliveries, depression when using oral hormonal contraceptives, borderline personality disorder diagnoses, preterm birth, postpartum depression and anxiety, smoking during pregnancy, and overall greater comorbidity and healthcare utilization【18†source】. Qualitative studies further show that young women with ADHD engage in more risk-taking behaviors and face unique challenges in healthcare, such as being disproportionately affected by school lockdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic【19†source】.Additionally, an expert consensus statement on females with ADHD highlights the need for a lifespan approach in identifying and treating ADHD in girls and women. It stresses the importance of moving away from viewing ADHD as solely a behavioral disorder and attending to more subtle or internalized presentations common in females. This approach includes comprehensive assessments, pharmacological and psychological interventions, and a lifespan model of care to support transitions experienced by females with ADHD【25†source】【27†source】.The prevalence of ADHD in children and adults indicates a disparity in diagnosis between males and females. While ADHD symptoms tend to decline with age, the rate of decline in inattentive symptoms varies. Psychiatric comorbidity is common in individuals with ADHD, complicating identification and treatment. The consensus statement also addresses the 'female protective effect' theory, suggesting that females may require a higher threshold of genetic and environmental exposures for ADHD to be expressed, which could account for the lower prevalence in females【28†source】【30†source】【31†source】【33†source】.In a broader perspective, Psychology Today highlights that ADHD is under-identified and under-treated in girls and women, despite being equally prevalent and impairing among both genders. ADHD presentations in girls and women often differ from those in males, leading to missed diagnoses.Z Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 2023 • 1h 23min
Addiction and ADHD
This episode of Talk ADHD explores the topic of addiction and its links to ADHD.TakeawaysIndividuals with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing addictions due to impulsivity, hyperactivity, and poor decision-making.Addiction is not limited to substance use and can include behaviors such as excessive screen time or workaholism.Early education and identification are crucial in addressing addiction and its links to ADHD.Therapy and support are essential in addiction recovery, particularly for individuals with ADHD who may struggle with relapse.The social construct of acceptable addictions can lead to stigma and hinder individuals from seeking help. Understanding the why behind addiction is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.Impulsivity can contribute to addiction, but it can also lead to positive experiences.The complexities of ADHD and addiction often involve coexisting conditions and trauma.Social perceptions and stigma surrounding addiction can hinder access to support and treatment.Comprehensive assessments and individualized approaches are necessary for addressing ADHD and addiction.00:00 Introduction to Addiction and its Links to ADHD 08:07 Understanding the Science behind Addiction 09:55 The Impact of ADHD on Adolescence and Risk of Addiction 15:39 Defining Addiction and the Role of Dopamine 21:29 The Higher Risk of Relapse for Individuals with ADHD 25:02 The Rise of Screen Addiction in Young People 31:59 The Social Construct of Acceptable Addictions 46:48 Understanding the Why of Addiction 48:24 The Complexities of Addiction and Sleep 52:51 The Need for Research and Understanding 56:22 The Role of Medication in ADHD Treatment 01:00:18 The Impact of ADHD Medication on Addiction 01:04:19 The Importance of Relapse Prevention 01:11:05 Focusing on the Why of Addiction 01:20:40 Supporting Partners and Challenging Stereotypes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 14, 2023 • 1h 34min
ADHD and RELATIONSHIPS
Dive into the complexities of relationships impacted by ADHD. Explore how attachment theory shapes our connections from infancy. Hear about the challenges of communication, emotional regulation, and the stress of masking behaviors. Discover practical strategies for reducing conflict, like using 'I feel' statements and listening exercises. Unpack the ripple effects of early relationship experiences and how they influence adult interactions. Learn the value of vulnerability and the importance of seeking help to strengthen bonds.


