In this episode, Dr. Amelia Kelley breaks down what ADHD really looks like, how it’s diagnosed, and why it’s often misunderstood, especially in women and girls. She shares how ADHD symptoms can overlap with anxiety and trauma, why masking makes detection difficult, and what treatment options (both medication and holistic approaches) can help.

Amelia also explores the role of genetics, the impact of trauma, and why lifestyle factors like exercise, diet, and structure are key to thriving with ADHD.

Whether you’re exploring a possible diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or curious about ADHD’s connection to mental health, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical tools.

Key Takeaways:

• ADHD diagnosis involves interviews, self-report scales, and sometimes brain imaging. there’s no single test.
• Women and girls often go undiagnosed due to masking and outdated research.
• ADHD and anxiety share symptoms, but their root causes differ.
• Trauma does not cause ADHD but can mimic or worsen symptoms.
• Treatment is highly individual: medication, exercise, diet, and external supports can all help.

Links and Resources:

• Powered by ADHD: Strategies and Exercises for Women to Harness Their Untapped Gifts by Dr. Amelia Kelley
• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
• A Hunter in a Farmer’s World: ADHD and the Edison Gene by Thom Hartmann

Connect with Dr. Amelia Kelley: About | Dr. Kelley's Books | Instagram 

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