Hacking Your ADHD

Danielle Elliot, a health and science journalist and documentary filmmaker, dives into the surge of ADHD diagnoses among women since the pandemic. She debunks myths surrounding women's ADHD, highlighting the societal misconceptions and the significant role of social media in raising awareness. The conversation also explores how hormonal factors are often overlooked in research. Through personal stories and practical insights, Danielle sheds light on the unique challenges women face, emphasizing the importance of individualized strategies for managing ADHD.

Dr. Ute Liersch, a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, shares her expertise on retraining the nervous system to tackle anxiety, ADHD, and burnout. She discusses how our sympathetic nervous system can become overstimulated, particularly for individuals with ADHD. Dr. Ute breaks down resilience into actionable steps and highlights the significance of community and self-identity. She also emphasizes the relationship between time, perfectionism, and effective communication, offering practical strategies for improving nervous system health and cultivating resilience.

In this engaging discussion, Skye Waterson, from Unconventional Organization, dives into the late diagnosis of ADHD in women in Sweden. She reveals that women are diagnosed nearly 3.9 years later than men, often due to cultural misunderstandings. Skye emphasizes the mental health implications of these delays and the need for more awareness around ADHD in women. The conversation also touches on advancements in diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the importance of understanding gender discrepancies in ADHD recognition.

In this discussion with Dr. Jennifer Dall, a grief-informed neurodivergence specialist and ADHD coach, we dive into the hidden challenges women face with ADHD. She sheds light on societal expectations that delay diagnoses and how symptoms can differ from those seen in men. Dr. Dall shares practical strategies to tackle everyday tasks, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and support. The conversation encourages a shift from shame to acceptance, empowering listeners to embrace their unique ADHD journey.

Saman Kesh, an award-winning music video director known for his collaborations with Kygo and Ed Sheeran, joins to explore the intricacies of ADHD productivity. He shares innovative strategies for overcoming paralysis, including the importance of routines and gamification. The conversation highlights how reducing friction in organizational tools can enhance focus. Saman emphasizes self-compassion and humor when tackling decision-making challenges, while also discussing the role of accountability in boosting creativity and motivation. Tune in for insightful, relatable tips!

In this discussion, Skye Waterson, an ADHD support expert at Unconventional Organization, unpacks a research study on Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation's effects on executive function in children with ADHD. They dive into the intriguing differences between hot and cold executive functioning, revealing how emotions greatly influence decision-making. The talk also highlights the challenges individuals with ADHD face in impulse control and explores the potential of innovative brain stimulation techniques for future support.

In a captivating discussion, Alex Campbell, an ICF-accredited ADHD coach and one of the UK's first diagnosed with ADHD, teams up with Katie Friedman, a TEDx speaker and fellow coach. They delve deep into how personalized coaching can empower individuals with ADHD beyond just goal-setting. The conversation touches on survival mode, internalized ableism, and the vital role of self-connection. They emphasize understanding one's strengths for better self-advocacy and the importance of community support in navigating the ADHD journey.

Britt Piper, a somatic experiencing practitioner and trauma educator known for her book Body First Healing, shares her journey and insights on healing trauma through the body. She discusses how trauma can remain trapped in the nervous system long after the mind feels safe. Britt explains the importance of somatic therapy and its effectiveness in addressing chronic trauma and intergenerational issues. Listeners learn about emotional suppression, the concept of 'functional freeze,' and practical ways to reconnect with their body's signals for better emotional well-being.

Skye Waterson, a specialist from Unconventional Organization focused on aiding individuals with ADHD, dives into the intriguing role of the default mode network in ADHD. They explore how this brain network affects attention and task performance, highlighting the intersection of genetics and treatment outcomes. The discussion also sheds light on the potential of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to alleviate symptoms and improve brain connectivity, plus the unique challenges faced by those diagnosed with ADHD later in life.

Dr. Otito Iwuchukwu, an Associate Professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University, discusses the emotional layers of belonging. She challenges the notion of belonging as a fixed state, presenting it instead as a dynamic journey. The conversation touches on the struggles of neurodivergent individuals and the toll of masking on authenticity. Dr. Iwuchukwu emphasizes the need for boundaries and self-acceptance, alongside practical tools for fostering genuine connections. Listeners are encouraged to navigate social challenges with grace and understanding.