ADHD Her Way Johanna Badenhorst

Summary

In this conversation, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the impact of hormonal changes on ADHD symptoms in women. She shares her personal journey with ADHD and hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and how they have affected her ADHD symptoms. Johanna highlights the role of estrogen and progesterone in regulating neurotransmitters and how fluctuations in these hormones can lead to changes in ADHD symptoms. She emphasizes the need for more research on the connection between hormones and ADHD in women and the importance of personalized treatment and self-advocacy.

Keywords

ADHD, hormonal changes, women, estrogen, progesterone, neurotransmitters, symptoms, research, treatment, self-advocacy

Takeaways

Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, can impact ADHD symptoms in women.

Rising estrogen levels during the follicular phase can improve mood and executive function, but may increase impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Declining estrogen and increasing progesterone during the luteal phase can lead to emotional dysregulation, working memory problems, and premenstrual symptoms.

Hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause/menopause can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.

There is a need for more research on the impact of hormones on ADHD in women and personalized treatment strategies.

Tracking menstrual cycles and symptoms can help women with ADHD better understand their own bodies and advocate for appropriate support and treatment.



Sound Bites

"The changes in our estrogen levels really impact our executive functioning and our mood regulation."

"Perimenopausal and menopausal phase, the decline in estrogen can worsen ADHD symptoms."

"It probably helps to learn about this to notice patterns for yourself, even if the research is slim."



Chapters

00:00 - Johanna's Entrepreneur Journey and Hormonal Struggles

04:41- The Vital Connection: Hormones and ADHD Symptoms

Summary

In this episode Johanna and Elaine from Third Place Therapy discuss trauma, attachment styles, and the intersectionality of neurodivergence, attachment, and trauma. Elaine provides a definition of trauma as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope, emphasising that trauma is subjective and unique to each individual. They also explore the different attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure, and disorganized) and how they can impact relationships, particularly in the context of neurodivergence. Additionally, they touch on the use of EMDR therapy as a tool for healing trauma and the importance of neuro-affirming approaches in therapy. In this conversation, Johanna and Elaine discuss the intersection of attachment styles and neurodivergence. They explore how neurodivergent individuals may struggle more with attachment styles and tend to have more insecure attachments. They also discuss the importance of neuro-affirming approaches in attachment work and the need for adjustments in understanding and meeting the needs of neurodivergent children. The conversation highlights the Circle of Security framework and the four S's of secure attachment: being seen, soothed, safe, and secure. They also touch on the impact of trauma on attachment and the overlap between trauma symptoms and ADHD. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of therapy in unpacking and healing attachment and trauma issues.

Keywords

trauma, attachment styles, ADHD, autism, CPTSD, EMDR therapy, neurodivergence, attachment styles, neurodivergence, insecure attachments, neuro-affirming, Circle of Security, four S's of secure attachment, trauma, ADHD, therapy


Takeaways

-Trauma is subjective and unique to each individual, defined as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope.
-Attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure, disorganized) can impact relationships, especially in the context of neurodivergence.
-EMDR therapy, which stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, can be an effective tool for healing trauma.
-Neuro-affirming approaches in therapy are important for individuals with neurodivergence.
-There is an intersectionality between ADHD, autism, and CPTSD, and individuals with ADHD are more prone to experiencing trauma. -Neurodivergent individuals may struggle more with attachment styles and tend to have more insecure attachments.
-Neuro-affirming approaches are important in attachment work, especially for neurodivergent children.
-There is overlap between trauma symptoms and ADHD, and it is important to consider both in therapy.

Sound Bites

"Trauma can be defined as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope."
"Trauma can be something that is too much too soon, too much for too long, or too little for too long."
"EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and it helps facilitate memory reconsolidation."
"Being seen, being soothed, being safe and secure."

To get more information about Elaine and her services visit @thirdplacetherapy or www.thirdplacetherapy.com

Follow @adhdherway for more content and share your feedback there or by emailing: hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au. Also checkout Johanna’s website www. holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au

Summary

In this episode, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the challenges faced by women with ADHD and how to empower themselves. She talks about the imposter syndrome and the importance of self-compassion. Johanna also explores reframing ADHD behaviours as strengths and aligning with personal values. She emphasizes the need for flexibility and acceptance in navigating life with ADHD.

Keywords: ADHD, women, empowerment, imposter syndrome, self-compassion, reframing, strengths, values, flexibility

Takeaways


Women with ADHD often struggle with imposter syndrome and low self-confidence.
Practicing self-compassion is key to building resilience and embracing strengths.
Reframing ADHD behaviors as strengths can empower individuals.
Aligning with personal values helps navigate life with ADHD.
Flexibility and acceptance are important in managing ADHD challenges.

Sound Bites


"It's a duck peddling a million times an hour."
"Self-compassion is key to building resilience."
"Turn ADHD traits into strengths."


Chapters

00:00Empowering Women with ADHD: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome06:07Reframing ADHD: Embracing Strengths and Self-Compassion13:33Living a Fulfilling Life with ADHD: Leveraging Unique Traits

Developmental Psychologist, Johanna interviews Dr. Hayley Quinn, who is a clinical psychologist and anti-burnout business coach, shares her journey of discovering her neurodivergence as an autistic and ADHD individual. She discusses the challenges of living in a neurotypical world and the importance of authenticity and self-compassion. Dr. Quinn emphasizes the need to prioritize well-being and sustainable practices in business and personal life. She also opens up about her experience with chronic illness and the impact it had on her work and personal life. In this conversation, Hayley and Johanna discuss the importance of self-compassion and authenticity for neurodivergent individuals. Hayley shares her personal journey of discovering her neurodivergent identity and the impact it had on her mental health. They also discuss the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the education system and workplace, and the need for greater acceptance and accommodation. Hayley highlights the importance of representation and reducing stigma around neurodivergence. They also touch on the role of self-compassion in creating a sustainable and fulfilling business. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and embracing one's unique strengths and challenges.

Keywords
neurodivergence, authenticity, self-compassion, burnout, business, chronic illness, neurodivergence, self-compassion, authenticity, mental health, education system, workplace, representation, stigma, acceptance, accommodation, business

Takeaways
Discovering and embracing one's neurodivergence can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Authenticity and vulnerability in professional settings can inspire others and create a more compassionate and inclusive environment.
Living in alignment with one's true self and prioritizing well-being is essential for preventing burnout.
Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in navigating a neurotypical world and may need to develop strategies to adapt and thrive.
Coexisting chronic health conditions are common among neurodivergent individuals and can significantly impact work and personal life. Self-compassion and authenticity are crucial for the well-being of neurodivergent individuals.
The education system and workplace need to be more accepting and accommodating of neurodivergent individuals.
Representation and reducing stigma around neurodivergence are important for creating a more inclusive society.
Self-compassion plays a key role in creating a sustainable and fulfilling business.
Embracing one's unique strengths and challenges is essential for self-acceptance and personal growth.

Sound Bites
"I think I've been dropped off on the wrong planet."
"Authenticity is one of my highest values."
"If I can live in a very authentic way, then that models to other people that they can."
"I'm valuable no matter what. I'm enough as I am. I'm lovable as I am."

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
12:31 - Authenticity and Professionalism
25:46 - Chronic Illness and Impact
36:13 - Representation and Stigma
44:22 - Creating a Sustainable Business
53:01 - Inspiring and Empowering Others

In this episode, Psychologist Johanna discusses burnout and the boom-bust cycle, particularly in individuals with ADHD.

Johanna emphasizes the importance of recognizing the early signs of burnout and implementing strategies to prevent or recover from it.

She introduces the concept of a pacing system, which involves monitoring activity levels, setting achievable goals based on energy levels, taking regular breaks, and practicing flexible scheduling.

Other strategies include mindfulness and meditation, physical activity, sleep hygiene, engaging in a supportive community, and monitoring diet and nutrition.

Keywords: burnout, boom-bust cycle, ADHD, pacing system, energy levels, productivity, early signs, strategies, mindfulness, meditation, physical activity, sleep hygiene, supportive community, diet, nutrition

Takeaways


Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.
The boom-bust cycle in individuals with ADHD is characterised by intense bursts of energy and productivity followed by a sharp decline in energy and productivity, leading to exhaustion.
Recognising the early signs of burnout is crucial for prevention and recovery.
Implementing a pacing system can help balance activity levels and manage energy more sustainably.
Strategies for preventing burnout include mindfulness and meditation, physical activity, sleep hygiene, engaging in a supportive community, and monitoring diet and nutrition.


"Burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress."
"The boom-bust cycle is characterized by intense bursts of energy, focus or creativity known as hyper fixation or hyper focus."
"The main components of a pacing system involve monitoring current activity levels, setting achievable goals based on energy levels, and taking regular breaks."

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Burnout and the Boom-Bust Cycle

03:09 Implementing a Pacing System for Energy Management

06:13 Planning Your Day Around Energy Levels

08:14 The Importance of Sleep, Diet, and Support



What next?
Visit our website for more info and resources: ⁠www.holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au/adhdherway⁠,
Follow and leave a message on our Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/adhdherway⁠/
Or, send us an email via:
hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au

In this episode Psychologist Johanna interviews Jeana Westcott (a licensed marriage and family therapist from America) who specialises in couples where one or both partners have ADHD.

We discuss the impact of the pandemic on relationships, the personal and professional experience of ADHD, the grief and late diagnosis of ADHD, rejection sensitivity (RSD) and emotional dysregulation in ADHD couples, managing emotional dysregulation in therapy, higher divorce rates and relationship difficulties in ADHD couples, the imbalance of labor in ADHD couples, unhelpful relationship patterns and communication issues, vulnerability and validation in ADHD relationships, overexposure and emotional dumping in ADHD relationships, and individual work and building self-confidence. This conversation explores the challenges and dynamics of relationships affected by ADHD.

The discussion covers topics such as new and old relationships, the impact of ADHD on couples with young children, the pressure of parenthood, and the desire for connection. The conversation also delves into the importance of support and empathy, working through relationship challenges, and shifting to a 'we' perspective. Additionally, the conversation offers advice for newly diagnosed individuals in relationships and recommends resources for couples affected by ADHD.Takeaways


The (COVID) pandemic has intensified relationship dynamics and family dynamics for ADHD couples, leading to increased conflict, stress, and seperation.
Late diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of grief and a reevaluation of past experiences, highlighting missed opportunities for understanding and support.
RSD and emotional dysregulation are common challenges in ADHD relationships, leading to criticism, defensiveness, and blame.
Therapy for ADHD couples focuses on improving communication, understanding relationship dynamics, and finding a balance of labor and responsibilities.
Validation, vulnerability, and self-confidence are important factors in building healthier and more fulfilling relationships for ADHD couples. ADHD can impact various aspects of relationships, including dating, parenthood, and overall dynamics.
Support and empathy are crucial in navigating the challenges of ADHD in relationships.
Both partners play a role in the relationship and need to be willing to work on themselves and the dynamics of the relationship.
Understanding and accepting an ADHD diagnosis can lead to better self-awareness and relationship dynamics.



Find Jeane Westcott on social media via @luminatetherapymn


Also follow @adhdherway and contact us via email on hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au