ADHD Mums Jane McFadden

Biggest guest I've ever interviewed as I nervously welcome Professor Tony Atwood, a true pioneer in the field of Autism, for an intimate and revealing conversation about the complexities of understanding and diagnosing neurodiversity in children, with a particular emphasis on the often-overlooked experience by those who internalise rather than externalise (often experienced by girls and women).
Tony shares his unparalleled expertise on how professionals can become more attuned to the subtle signs of neurodiversity that may be masked or internalised, ensuring that no child slips through the cracks. We delve into the critical importance of thorough preparation and documentation in achieving a successful assessment, and explore potential groundbreaking changes to the DSM criteria that could revolutionise the way we diagnose and support neurodivergent individuals.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to gain invaluable insights from Tony's unique dual perspective as both a seasoned clinician and a compassionate parent. This promises to be a conversation that will leave you informed, empowered, and inspired to create a more inclusive and understanding world for all children.
I highly recommend all Dr Tony Attwood's courses - he runs Attwood and Garnett Events. Dr Michelle Garnett was unfortunately unwell the day of the interview and she is the second half of this incredible educational company.
https://attwoodandgarnettevents.com/

Just tuned in to the latest ADHD Mums episode? It's a real gem! Jane McFadden had a fantastic chat with parenting expert Gen Muir about the ups and downs of raising neurodivergent kids. If you're looking for some honest, down-to-earth advice and strategies, this is the episode for you.
Gen gets what it's like to be a parent in the trenches – she shares from both her personal experiences and her professional expertise. So if you're feeling overwhelmed with sibling squabbles (especially if you have neurodiverse kids), Gen's got some amazing tips on how to bring some peace and harmony back into your home. She's all about building strong, loving family connections, even when things get a little chaotic.
Don't miss out on this heartwarming and super helpful episode!
Gen's website is here
and her IG handle Connected Parenting is here
Gen’s House Rules
1. We don't each other or ourselves
2. We don't damage things or property
3. We don't call people names/unkind words
4. If someone is showing signs that they are not okay or they say stop we stop and check on them.

This episode I reflect on my experiences shared over the past year in the ADHD Mums podcast, I am reminded of the challenges and success faced by neurodiverse families like mine. Throughout the episodes, I have emphasized the importance of neuro affirming approaches, acceptance, and understanding for individuals with ADHD and Autism. My journey has been marked by insights into the NDIS process, therapy fatigue, and the impact of medication on behavior and family dynamics.
One key takeaway from my podcast journey is the significance of self-awareness, compassion, and individualized approaches in supporting neurodiverse individuals and families. I have learned to trust my instincts, prioritize self-care, and seek professionals who align with my values and beliefs. Through sharing personal experiences and insights, I aim to empower other parents navigating similar challenges.
As I continue to explore topics such as advocating for children with ADHD, navigating school environments, and promoting self-care, I hope to provide a safe space for discussions and reflections on neurodiversity. My journey with the podcast has been enlightening, challenging, and ultimately rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to share my learnings and insights with the ADHD Mums community.
Resources:
The Untold Struggles of Motherhood (Part 2) with Kaitlyn Faulkner
Advocating for your child’s success at school with Tania Waring
ADHD and Parenting with Sharon Collins
High Camouflaging ADHD and ASD with Millie Carr
Therapy Fatigue
Addiction and ADHD (Food and Alcohol) with Fiona McIntyre
Medication and Psychiatrist episode
Unique Differences of ADHD and Autism in Women with Dr. Jacinta Thomson
The Episode That Led Jane to Choose Homeschooling with Nicki Farrell
Life as an Inattentive Mum with Bessie Campbell
From Skeptic to Advocate: Medication for Children with Jane McFadden

This episode of ADHD Mums features Ceri Sanford, an ADHD compassion coach who shares her journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and how she embraces her neurodiversity.
Ceri discusses the challenges and humorous mishaps she faced while attempting to schedule the interview, highlighting common ADHD traits like forgetfulness and lack of attention to detail. She delves into the importance of compassion towards oneself, particularly for those with ADHD, and provides insights on navigating life's daily challenges without succumbing to shame or unrealistic standards.
Ceri also talks about her educational background, her decision to pivot her career towards helping people with ADHD, and the conception of her Compassion Project and aimed at fostering a more compassionate and understanding relationship with ADHD.
The conversation emphasizes self-awareness, the importance of making life adjustments that cater to ADHD needs, and advocating for a realistic portrayal of ADHD and motherhood on social media.
The episode wraps up with Ceri encouraging listeners to embrace their ADHD challenges with compassion and understanding.
Check out Ceri on her below website:
https://www.cerisandford.com/

**Trigger warning: there is discussion of a child disclosing suicidal tendencies**
This episode of the ADHD Mums Podcast features a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Alana Mannix about the complexities of co-parenting children with additional needs, particularly in the face of diagnosis disagreements.
Jane and Alana delve into their personal experiences with ADHD, the importance of seeking documented evidence and working collaboratively with schools, and the challenges of navigating relationships with ex-partners who may not be on the same page regarding their children's needs.
Key Highlights:
-Alana shares the challenges she faced in getting a diagnosis for her children due to disagreements with her ex-partner.
- The importance of documented evidence from schools and medical professionals in supporting children’s needs.
- Strategies for effective communication with ex-partners, including keeping communication open and factual, and inviting them to participate in medical appointments.
- Personal insights into managing ADHD as adults and parents, including medication experiences and the impact of ADHD on daily life and decision-making.
- The role of supportive communities and professional advice in navigating the journey of parenting neurodiverse children in a co-parenting setting.
The discussion also covers the broader implications of diagnosis and acceptance within families, offering valuable advice and solidarity to parents facing similar struggles.

This episode of ADHD Mums features a conversation with Bessie Campbell, a typical Aussie Mum ADHDer who shares her journey of being late-diagnosed with a combined presentation of ADHD, Autism and complex PTSD. Bessie, a mother and a professional in social services, discusses the challenges of managing ADHD inattentiveness, incorporating rigorous systems to stay organized, and the identity crisis following her diagnosis.
The conversation touches upon the intersectionality of autism, ADHD, and complex PTSD in Bessie's life, highlighting struggles with identity, motherhood, and the exhaustive effort required to maintain semblances of organization.
Additionally, they delve into the societal perceptions of Autism and ADHD, discussing the implications of labelling these conditions as disorders versus differences.