ADHD Chatter

In this engaging chat, Jessica Summers, a hypno-psychotherapist and expert on Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), shares her mission to raise awareness about this often-misunderstood condition. She vividly describes RSD as a painful experience, akin to 'thousands of paper cuts.' Jessica discusses how tiny triggers can provoke immense reactions, the gender differences in responses, and the impacts of RSD on relationships and perfectionism. She offers practical strategies for managing RSD, emphasizing self-compassion and the journey toward emotional resilience.

Hannah Bookbinder, an ADHD and executive functioning coach with 25 years of experience, shares her insights on understanding and empowering those with ADHD. She discusses the emotional toll of undiagnosed ADHD and the societal misconceptions labeling ADHD individuals as 'lazy.' Delving into how working memory affects daily tasks, she explains the power of strategies like gamifying tasks to boost motivation. Hannah further explores the intersection of ADHD and anxiety, providing hope and encouraging listeners to find their supportive communities.

Kat Brown, an insightful author and advocate for adult ADHD, shares her experiences of late diagnosis and its profound impact on her life. She reflects on her childhood feelings of difference, the complexities of masking, and how rejection sensitive dysphoria shaped her emotional landscape. Kat offers practical coping strategies and discusses the challenges women face in ADHD recognition. She emphasizes the importance of self-identity, explores the role of social interactions, and encourages listeners with a heartfelt letter to their younger selves.

Pete Wharmby, an international bestselling author and AuDHD specialist, sheds light on the complexities of living with both autism and ADHD. He discusses why AuDHD can be seen as a blessing, sharing personal anecdotes to illustrate his experiences. The conversation dives into the social challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, such as rejection-sensitive dysphoria and the impacts of masking on relationships. Pete emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself through diagnosis and offers heartfelt advice to younger neurodivergents struggling with societal expectations.

Michaela Thomas, a clinical psychologist specializing in perfectionism and ADHD, shares her insights on overcoming procrastination. She delves into how ADHD-related challenges in starting tasks are fueled by perfectionism and emotional turmoil. Michaela emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, gamifying tasks, and breaking them into manageable 'ice cubes.' She also contrasts ADHD and autism at the perfectionism crossroads and discusses the toll of burnout. Listeners will appreciate her practical strategies for achieving balance and reducing shame.

Danielle Mulligan, a UK-based Nurse Practitioner and leading ADHD clinician, shares her insights on the emotional struggles faced by adults with undiagnosed ADHD. She discusses how feelings of unlovability stem from masking and societal misconceptions. Danielle highlights the intense emotions following a diagnosis, including relief and grief, and explains Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. She reveals the complexities of diagnosing female ADHD and the importance of early detection for mental health. Her heartfelt mission is to foster understanding and provide support for all patients.

Get ready to laugh and relate as the hosts delve into everyday annoyances that trigger ADHD rage. Loud chewers and slow walkers top the list, disrupting focus and patience. Hyperfocus interruptions spark intense frustration, while sudden bright lights can ruin your vibe. Tech failures lead to a feeling of betrayal, and misplacing items sends you into a rage spiral. Waiting in queues feels torturous, and inconsiderate eating noises provoke public confrontations. Each trigger is explored with humor and understanding, leaving you feeling validated.

Dr. Shyamal Mashru, an award-winning psychiatrist and ADHD expert, shares his insights on the often overlooked struggles women face with ADHD. He discusses how feeling misunderstood can deeply impact self-esteem and emotional health. Delving into comorbid conditions, he highlights the link between untreated ADHD and increased dementia risk. Dr. Mashru also addresses the unique challenges women encounter, like masking and burnout, while offering hope through proper diagnosis and treatment. His poignant letter to his younger self inspires resilience and optimism.

Dr. Mark Rackley, a clinical psychologist with over two decades of experience in ADHD, dives deep into high-functioning ADHD. He explains how masking often hides genuine struggles and can delay diagnosis. The discussion reveals the exhausting nature of overcompensation and the emotional toll of rejection-sensitive dysphoria. Mark links loneliness to imposter feelings and explores the connection between high achievement and addiction. He also shares valuable insights on coping strategies and the risk of burnout, emphasizing self-validation and connection.

Dr. Jacob Ambrose, a clinical psychologist specializing in ADHD, delves into the emotional turmoil of undiagnosed ADHD. He discusses how childhood criticism breeds low self-esteem and shame, particularly in women. The conversation highlights the stress of masking true selves and its toll on health. Jacob reveals the nuances of rejection-sensitive dysphoria and how it destabilizes relationships, emphasizing the impact of romantic attachment styles. He also advocates for the power of a proper diagnosis in reclaiming one’s potential and embracing self-acceptance.