ADHD Mums

Jane McFadden
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  • MENTAL HEALTH
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ADHD Mums

Welcome to The ADHD MUMS Podcast, a lifeline for Australian mums navigating ADHD and motherhood. Perfect for struggling, burnt out mums who want to drop perfectionism.

  1. 63. Surviving the Mental Load of the School Year

    19 HR AGO

    63. Surviving the Mental Load of the School Year

    Ever feel like you're the default manager of every school-related task - lunches, library books, permission slips, and last-minute costume days? The mental load of the school year is relentless, and if you're a neurodivergent mum, it’s even harder. This episode dives into why the school-year mental load feels so overwhelming and offers practical strategies to help lighten it - without burning out. In this episode:  Why the mental load is so exhausting - the invisible, never-ending tasks that pile upBatch planning and automation tips to reduce decision fatigue and keep things running smoothlySharing the load with partners, kids, and even external systems to avoid carrying it all aloneBreaking free from perfectionism and letting go of unrealistic societal expectationsPreventing burnout by setting boundaries, redefining priorities, and making space for you ADHD Mums Facebook community Follow ADHD Mums on Instagram ADHD Planner and Personal Values Workbook Stop People Pleasing episode  Dr Winnicott: “Good Enough” Parenting The Fair Play Deck Game A Guide to School Pick-Up for ADHD Mums JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format! FOLLOW FOR MORE: Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube LEAVE A REVIEW: Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together. COLLABS: For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au. MORE RESOURCES: Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here. Topics Covered in This Episode: ADHD mums, mental load, school stress, executive dysfunction, decision fatigue, batch planning, school routines, working mum overwhelm, school organisation, ADHD parenting, school year survival, time management, mum burnout, shared parenting, invisible labour, emotional load, ADHD executive function, school admin stress, automation for mums, family calendar, school lunches, permission slips, neurodivergent mum, ADHD overwhelm, mum guilt, mental load strategies, household management, school planning hacks, ADHD-friendly...

    31 min
  2. 62. Burnout, Pain & Weird Symptoms? The ADHD Link No One Told Us About

    2 DAYS AGO

    62. Burnout, Pain & Weird Symptoms? The ADHD Link No One Told Us About

    If you’re constantly running on empty, dealing with chronic pain, weird health symptoms, or crushing fatigue - this isn’t just mum life, and it’s not all in your head. ADHD doesn’t just affect the brain; it impacts the entire body. Add the mental load of motherhood, and it’s no wonder so many ADHD mums feel like we’re barely hanging on. In this episode: Why ADHD is linked to inflammation, chronic pain, gut issues, and immune dysfunction.How the mental load of parenting neurodivergent kids can physically impact your health.Why women with ADHD are more prone to conditions like fibromyalgia, hypermobility, and lipidemia.How stress, hormones, and burnout can leave you feeling broken - and what you can do about it.The real reason so many mums feel dismissed by doctors when they ask for help. If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling apart while everyone else seems fine, this episode will help you understand why - and how to start advocating for your health. From here:  Join the conversation in our private Facebook group where other ADHD mums share what’s worked for them. Follow me on Instagram for updates on my personal journey with lipidemia and my upcoming surgery. Amen Clinics (referenced in ep - not affiliated or sponsored) LEAVE A REVIEW: Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together. COLLABS: For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au. MORE RESOURCES: Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here. Topics Covered in This Episode: ADHD, ADHD mums, ADHD and health, ADHD and chronic illness, ADHD and inflammation, ADHD burnout, ADHD fatigue, ADHD and stress, ADHD and physical health, ADHD and emotional wellbeing, ADHD and chronic pain, ADHD and gut health, ADHD and autoimmune disorders, ADHD and hormones, ADHD and perimenopause, ADHD and menopause, ADHD and mental load, ADHD and motherhood, ADHD mum exhaustion, neurodivergent health, neurodivergent mums, ADHD and trauma, ADHD and immune system, ADHD and migraines, ADHD and hypermobility, ADHD and fibromyalgia, ADHD and lipidemia, ADHD and brain fog, ADHD and stress response, ADHD and nervous system, ADHD and mental health, ADHD and women’s health, ADHD and emotional burnout, ADHD coping strategies, ADHD self-care, ADHD and lifestyle changes. Mentioned in this episode: ADHD Pre-Diagnosis Workbook: A Guide for Women and Mothers Wondering if it’s ADHD or mum life? The ADHD Pre-Diagnosis Workbook is your survival guide, helping you untangle your thoughts and explore ADHD traits - perfect for those curious about self-diagnosis or preparing for an assessment. ADHD Pre-Diagnosis Worbook

    28 min
  3. 61. Unhealthy Habits & ADHD: Why We Get Stuck & How to Shift

    4 FEB

    61. Unhealthy Habits & ADHD: Why We Get Stuck & How to Shift

    We tell ourselves we won’t do it again - won’t reach for that glass of wine after the kids go to bed, won’t fall into an hours-long scroll hole, won’t spend another $300 on a hyperfocus obsession we’ll drop in a month. And yet… here we are. Our ADHD brains crave dopamine, and sometimes that means turning to habits that feel good in the moment but leave us stuck in a cycle. This episode isn’t about willpower or self-blame - it’s about understanding why ADHD makes these habits so sticky and what we can do to shift them for good. In This Episode, We Cover:Why our ADHD brains chase instant gratification - and how to hack itHow emotional regulation struggles fuel habits like binge eating, impulse spending, and avoidanceThe power of micro-delays, habit tracking, and reframing negative self-talkSimple dopamine-boosting alternatives that actually work How to make impulsive habits harder to access - so we don’t have to rely on willpower Resources mentioned: Mummy Needs More Than WineADHD Mums FB GroupADHD Planner and Personal Values Workbook JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format! FOLLOW FOR MORE: Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube LEAVE A REVIEW: Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together. COLLABS: For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au. MORE RESOURCES: Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here. Topics Covered in This Episode: ADHD, unhealthy habits, breaking bad habits, ADHD and impulse control, ADHD and addiction, ADHD and dopamine, ADHD binge eating, ADHD emotional regulation, ADHD and overspending, ADHD hyperfocus, ADHD and alcohol, ADHD and social media, ADHD habit tracking, ADHD-friendly strategies, ADHD procrastination, ADHD and executive function, ADHD self-sabotage, ADHD and willpower, ADHD and instant gratification, ADHD coping mechanisms, ADHD and routines, ADHD-friendly self-care, ADHD burnout, ADHD mindfulness, ADHD and cognitive behavioural therapy, ADHD and stress management, ADHD brain rewiring, ADHD and lifestyle changes. Mentioned in this episode: ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook: A System for ADHD Mums Simplify your chaotic ADHD mum life with the ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook....

    26 min
  4. 60. Mummy Needs More Than Wine: The Truth About Coping and Connection

    3 FEB

    60. Mummy Needs More Than Wine: The Truth About Coping and Connection

    We tell ourselves it’s just one glass - we deserve it after a long day. But somehow, that glass turns into the easiest way to switch off. And if we’re honest, we’re not sure it’s working anymore. ADHD mums aren’t drinking just for fun - we’re drinking to cope with the mental load, the overstimulation, the relentless pressure to do it all. And while a glass of wine might feel like a quick fix, it could actually be making everything harder. This isn’t about guilt or never drinking again. It’s about understanding what’s really going on - so we can make choices that actually help, not just temporarily numb the chaos. In this episode: Why ADHD mums are more likely to struggle with alcohol useThe dopamine trap - why that first drink feels amazing but leaves you worse offAlcohol & anxiety - the connection no one talks aboutThe role of perfectionism & stress in why we drinkHow to reset your brain (without feeling like you’re missing out) If you’ve ever poured a drink and wondered, “Do I actually need this?” - this episode is for you. JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format! FOLLOW FOR MORE: Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube LEAVE A REVIEW: Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together. COLLABS: For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au. MORE RESOURCES: Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here. Topics Covered in This Episode: ADHD mums, alcohol and ADHD, mummy wine culture, ADHD and binge drinking, ADHD and addiction, ADHD and dopamine, ADHD and anxiety, ADHD burnout, ADHD overwhelm, coping strategies for ADHD mums, stress and ADHD, perfectionism and ADHD, ADHD and self-medication, ADHD mental health, ADHD and emotional regulation, alcohol and dopamine crash, ADHD executive dysfunction, ADHD and social anxiety, ADHD and impulsivity, ADHD mum life, neurodivergent mums and alcohol, alcohol and overstimulation, ADHD-friendly coping strategies, breaking drinking habits, ADHD mums mental load, ADHD and self-care, ADHD and substance use, ADHD women and drinking, ADHD and habit change, sober ADHD mum, reducing alcohol ADHD, ADHD-friendly relaxation techniques. Mentioned in this episode: ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook: A System for ADHD Mums Simplify your chaotic ADHD mum life with the ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook. Designed to help you brain dump the chaos, prioritise what truly matters, and stop the guilt spiral, these tools are 100% fluff-free and built for real-life use. Start anytime, pick up and put down as needed, and create a system that...

    31 min
  5. 59. Trauma, EMDR, and ADHD: Jess's Story of Recovery

    29 JAN

    59. Trauma, EMDR, and ADHD: Jess's Story of Recovery

    Feeling like you’re carrying the weight of the world? Whether it’s the invisible scars of trauma, the daily juggle of ADHD, or the pressure to hold it all together, this episode dives into what happens when life gets overwhelming - and how to start healing. Jess shares her deeply personal journey from life in the ADF to facing PTSD, navigating ADHD, and rebuilding her life with the help of EMDR therapy. This isn’t just another survival story - it’s about breaking free from the cycle of burnout, asking for help, and relearning how to live a life that feels more like you. The ADHD Pre-Diagnosis Workbook: A Guide for Women and Mothers for if you're curious about self-diagnosis or preparing for an assessment. Important to note: This episode contains personal reflections on trauma, mental health, and brief mentions of suicidal ideation. Jess’s story is deeply personal and reflects her unique experiences in both her life and career. Please remember that individual journeys and circumstances vary. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a trusted mental health professional or support service. In this episode: How Jess went from military service to healing through therapy.The challenges of balancing ADHD and parenting after trauma.What EMDR therapy really feels like - and why it might help you too.Tips for recognising when it’s time to ask for help. If you’ve ever felt stuck, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward, this episode is for you. Listen to Next: Episode - Where does the trauma start and ADHD begin? Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Episode - Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria - Listen on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyEpisode - How ADHD Medication Revealed My Autistic Traits - Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format! FOLLOW FOR MORE: Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube LEAVE A...

    27 min
  6. 58. Struggling to Understand ADHD? Here’s What Your Partner Needs You to Know [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

    27 JAN

    58. Struggling to Understand ADHD? Here’s What Your Partner Needs You to Know [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

    For many ADHD mums, explaining ADHD to loved ones can feel like speaking another language. Partners and family members might try their best but don’t always grasp the full picture - or might even feel overwhelmed or unsure how to help. This episode is for both ADHD mums and their loved ones - those who want to help but feel unsure about ADHD, feeling overwhelmed by what it means, or just want to provide better support. In This Episode: Understanding ADHD: Why ADHD isn’t about effort or being disorganised - it’s about how the brain processes and manages information.Validation Matters: The incredible impact of simply acknowledging someone’s experience.Tools for Teamwork: Shared strategies like visual schedules, body doubling, and clear communication to reduce tension.Moving Past Misunderstandings: Practical ways to address challenges like unfinished tasks and miscommunication without blame. Note: Every relationship and experience with ADHD is unique, and this episode is part of an ongoing conversation. The tools and insights shared here are designed to foster understanding and connection but are not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re an ADHD mum, listen to this episode and share it with someone who needs to understand your journey. If you’re a partner or family member, hit play with curiosity - it's a chance to hear how small changes can make life easier for everyone. Resources Mentioned: ADHD Planner & Values Workbook: Tools to help create routines that work for neurodivergent families.Episode - PMS and ADHD. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Episode - Feeling like PMS is taking over your life? It might be PMDD. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Episode - From Skeptic to Advocate: Medication for Children. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Join the ADHD Mums Facebook Community for support and connection.Barkley 2018: Executive Functions: What They Are, How They Work, and Why They Evolved linked HERE. JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love...

    38 min
  7. 57. The NDIS Shake-Up and National Autism Strategy: What Jane Really Thinks [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

    22 JAN

    57. The NDIS Shake-Up and National Autism Strategy: What Jane Really Thinks [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

    Important Context: Some of the changes I discuss in this episode aren’t officially announced or reflected on the NDIS website. However, feedback from a large number of parents who completed my survey suggests these changes are happening as the NDIS plans are reviewed or when new applications go in. There is a huge amount of inconsistency within the NDIS with unclear definitions and varying levels of expertise from NDIS planners who make eligibility decisions. Providers are witnessing these issues firsthand, but some remain silent out of fear that speaking up could jeopardise their AHPRA registration, Medicare provider number, and the careers they’ve worked tirelessly to build. While the National Autism Strategy offers exciting long-term initiatives, many families are telling me through my survey that they’re struggling right now with reduced funding, shifting eligibility criteria, and the emotional toll of navigating these changes. What this episode covers: NDIS Reforms: What parents are saying about how these changes are affecting their children’s access to supports.The National Autism Strategy: Why it’s a positive step forward but doesn’t address the immediate needs of families.Early Intervention Gaps: How families are being left without support during a critical stage of development.Stories from Parents: Real experiences shared through my survey, highlighting the challenges and confusion around these changes.Advocating for Change: What we can do together to push for transparency and better support. What you can do: Share Your Story: Add your experience to my survey or join the conversation in the ADHD Mums Facebook Group.Write to Your Local MP: Advocate for clearer communication and better support for families.Spread Awareness: Share this episode and discuss these issues with your community. If you’d like to read more: Summary of NDIS Changes on 3rd October 2024 can be found HERE and I have a free resource HERE.Early Intervention Requirements FAQ linked HEREADHD Mums Jotform Survey is HERE JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format! FOLLOW FOR MORE: Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, a href="https://facebook.com/100091850469503/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    32 min
  8. 56. Setting Your ADHD Family Up for a Smoother School Year [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

    20 JAN

    56. Setting Your ADHD Family Up for a Smoother School Year [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

    Whether it’s the start of a new school year or a mid-term reset, managing routines and transitions as an ADHD family can feel overwhelming. From chaotic mornings to emotional regulation challenges, this episode is packed with practical strategies to support your family anytime you're looking to create a smoother school experience. This episode is here to help you: Reflect on what’s working and what needs adjusting.Simplify morning chaos with micro-routines and visual aids.Manage sensory sensitivities in uniforms, supplies, and environments.Build resilience and emotional strategies for kids and parents. Resources mentioned: Episode - How ADHD medication revealed my autistic traits. Listen here on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Episode - Raising Strong Children: How to Support Without Always Solving Their Problems. Listen here on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Surviving School Pick-Up: A Guide for ADHD Mums: 75-page guide full of scripts, strategies, and practical tips to navigate school pick-up as a neurodivergent mum. The Essential De-Stress Planner for Hyperactive Mums linked here. JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format! FOLLOW FOR MORE: Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube LEAVE A REVIEW: Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together. COLLABS: For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au. MORE RESOURCES: Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

    47 min
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About

Welcome to The ADHD MUMS Podcast, a lifeline for Australian mums navigating ADHD and motherhood. Perfect for struggling, burnt out mums who want to drop perfectionism.

Information

  • Creator
    Jane McFadden
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    142
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jane McFadden
  • Show Website
    ADHD Mums
  • Provider

    Jane McFadden has not identified itself as a trader for this podcast. If you are a consumer in the European Economic Area, consumer rights do not apply to agreements between you and the provider.

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