Hormones play a powerful—and often overlooked—role in how ADHD shows up across a

woman’s lifespan. In this episode of All Things ADHD, Dara Abraham, DO, a board-certified

psychiatrist specializing in adult ADHD, unpacks how hormonal shifts from puberty through

perimenopause and menopause can affect focus, mood, energy, and medication response. Dr.

Abraham explains the interplay between estrogen, progesterone, and key brain chemicals, why

ADHD is often missed or misunderstood in girls and women, and why symptoms may intensify

at certain points in the menstrual cycle or later in life. The conversation also explores practical,

evidence-based strategies for managing ADHD during hormonal transitions, including treatment

adjustments, self-advocacy, and lifestyle supports—offering insight for women who have

ADHD, parents of girls and adolescents with ADHD, and clinicians alike.

Dara Abraham, DO, is a board-certified psychiatrist who focuses on adult ADHD and mental

health advocacy. She is in private practice in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her expertise and

insights have been showcased in articles, podcasts, and conferences, where she works tirelessly to promote awareness and deepen understanding of ADHD and related conditions.

This episode is sponsored by Otsuka. Discover more at Otsuka-us.com/CNS.

In this episode of All Things ADHD, we sit down with Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells, a board-certified pediatrician, to unpack the complexities of medication treatment. She explains the importance of early and accurate diagnosis, the differences between stimulant and nonstimulant medications, and why a comprehensive evaluation is essential. She describes how to monitor effectiveness and side effects, navigate co-occurring conditions, and handle situations where caregivers or providers have differing opinions about treatment. With an emphasis on the role of advocacy, education, and collaboration, she offers valuable insights about the adolescent years and the transition to greater independence. This conversation offers clarity, guidance, and reassurance for families and individuals making medication decisions for ADHD.

Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician and an assistant professor of pediatrics at the TCU Burnett School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors future physicians. As a physician diagnosed with ADHD, she has a special interest in caring for patients with ADHD and their families. A member of CHADD’s board of directors, she also serves on the planning committee for the International Conference on ADHD. Dr. Lentzsch-Parcells regularly speaks to parent, student, and professional audiences on subjects such as parenting, ADHD, depression, anxiety and stress, adolescent development, sexuality, and preparing for college.

En este episodio seguimos con nuestra colaboración con El Futuro y compartimos las historias de Yudith y Sairy. Las dos mamás hablan de su experiencia criando a hijos con TDAH, respondiendo preguntas sobre cómo se sintieron, cómo enfrentaron las dificultades y lo que han aprendido sobre el diagnóstico y la manera en que su hijo lo vive. Sus historias reflejan determinación, valentía y esperanza en nuestras comunidades.

GUEST BIOS

Yudith es madre soltera de Honduras. Se mudó a otro país para darle una mejor vida a su hijo adolescente con TDAH. Aunque ha sido difícil adaptarse, sigue adelante con mucho esfuerzo y amor por su hijo.

Sairy es madre de El Salvador y cría sola a su hijo con TDAH. A pesar de los problemas familiares, nunca dejó de buscar apoyo. Terminó un curso sobre TDAH y sigue aprendiendo para sentirse más segura y fuerte como madre soltera.

En este primer episodio de nuestra serie especial en colaboración con El Futuro, escuchamos a Mayra y Shirley, dos mamás que están criando a hijos con TDAH. Cada una cuenta su experiencia, cómo se sintieron al recibir el diagnóstico y qué hicieron para apoyar a su hijo. También comparten lo que han aprendido y cómo ha cambiado su manera de ver las cosas con el tiempo. Sus historias muestran la fuerza, el amor y el poder de la comunidad.

GUEST BIOS

Mayra es madre de una niña con TDAH. Al principio fue difícil entender el diagnóstico y manejar todo en casa, pero con el tiempo convirtió esa experiencia en una forma de ayudar. Ahora acompaña a otros padres como mamá mentora, dando apoyo y recursos.

Shirleey es madre Mexicana de un niño con TDAH. Ha pasado por muchos retos, pero siempre ha buscado la mejor ayuda para su hijo. Hoy también es madre mentora y trabaja para romper el estigma alrededor del TDAH.

In this episode of All Things ADHD, psychologist Ari Tuckman joins us to explore how ADHD shows up in the workplace—and how you can thrive and be productive amid all its challenges. He shares practical strategies grounded in self-awareness and simplicity, including how to address time management, task initiation, emotional regulation, disclosure, and requests for accommodations. He offers insights into building ADHD-friendly systems, managing transitions, and identifying the right work environment, whether remote, hybrid, or in-office. The conversation also tackles burnout, job loss, and the delicate balance between accountability and self-compassion in professional life.

Ari Tuckman, PsyD, MBA, is a psychologist in private practice in West Chester, Pennsylvania. His most recent book is The ADHD Productivity Manual (Working Memory Press, 2025). He has appeared on CNN, National Public Radio, and XM Radio and been quoted in The New York Times, USA Today, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, USnews.com, and many other media outlets. A former member of CHADD’s board of directors, he serves as the current conference committee co-chair representing CHADD. A frequent contributor to Attention magazine, Dr. Tuckman is a regular guest on CHADD’s webinars and podcasts.

En este episodio, contamos nuevamente con la terapeuta Kathy Argueta. En esta segunda parte, hablamos sobre estrategias prácticas para manejar el TDAH y el TOD en niños, con un enfoque en prácticas culturalmente relevantes para familias latinas. Los temas incluyen cómo equilibrar la crianza tradicional con terapias modernas, fomentar una comunicación abierta, crear un ambiente de apoyo en el hogar y acceder a recursos profesionales y comunitarios. También compartimos consejos para abogar por los hijos, avances prometedores en la investigación y cómo los padres pueden mantenerse informados e involucrados en el progreso de sus hijos.

English Translation

Supporting Latino Families: Navigating ADHD and ODD in Children Part 2

In this episode, we discuss practical strategies for managing ADHD and ODD in children, with a focus on culturally relevant approaches for Latino families. Topics include balancing traditional parenting with modern therapies, fostering open communication, creating a supportive home environment, and accessing professional and community resources. We also cover advocacy tips, promising research developments, and ways for parents to stay informed and involved in their child’s progress.

En este episodio, exploramos los desafíos y fortalezas únicos dentro de la comunidad latina al apoyar a niños de 2 a 12 años con TDAH (Trastorno por Déficit de Atención e Hiperactividad) y Trastorno Oposicional Desafiante (TOD). Nuestra terapeuta invitada, Kathy Argueta, destaca cómo valores culturales como los fuertes lazos familiares, el apoyo comunitario y las creencias espirituales pueden desempeñar un papel crucial para ayudar tanto a los padres como a los niños a enfrentar estas condiciones. Enfatizamos la importancia de reconocer los signos y síntomas de TDAH y el TOD, fomentando la comprensión y la aceptación, y abordando estos diagnósticos con compasión. Aunque este episodio se centra en generar conciencia y reflexión, también ofrece ideas sobre cómo las prácticas culturales existentes pueden impactar positivamente a los niños y sus familias. ¡No te pierdas las estrategias específicas que compartiremos en el próximo episodio!

English Translation

Supporting Latino Families: Navigating ADHD and ODD in Children

In this episode, we explore the unique challenges and strengths within the Latino community when supporting children ages 2 to 12 with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder). Our guest therapist, Kathy Argueta, highlights how cultural values such as strong family ties, community support, and spiritual beliefs can play a crucial role in helping both parents and children navigate these conditions. We emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of ADHD and ODD, fostering understanding and acceptance, and addressing these diagnoses with compassion. While this episode focuses on raising awareness and reflection, it also offers insights into how existing cultural practices can positively impact children and their families. Don't miss the specific strategies we will share in the next episode!

In this episode of ADHD 365, educational consultant Judy Bass delves into the unique challenges faced by high school and college students with executive function difficulties, particularly those with ADHD. Bass, an internationally recognized expert in college planning and preparation for students who learn differently, shares valuable insights on how these students can overcome common obstacles such as time management, organization, and prioritization. She discusses the differences between high school and college regarding accommodations, emphasizing the importance of early preparation and self-advocacy.

Bass also provides practical strategies parents and educators can use to support students in developing independence and transitioning successfully to college life. With a focus on identifying the student’s strengths, this episode offers encouragement and actionable advice for navigating the path to academic and personal success.

In this episode of ADHD 365, neuropsychologist Brandy Callahan discusses the relationship between ADHD and brain health, especially as individuals age. An expert in cognitive aging and brain health, Dr. Callahan, explains how over time, ADHD can have an impact on memory, executive function, and overall cognitive abilities. She highlights the importance of managing stress, sleep, and vascular health, as well as the potential benefits of lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and social engagement.

Dr. Callahan also touches on the double challenge faced by adults with ADHD, especially women, who may experience both aging and ADHD-related cognitive difficulties. She shares valuable insights into the emerging research on ADHD and brain health, practical strategies for supporting brain health, and the role of mindfulness, sleep hygiene, and social interaction in maintaining cognitive function.

Resources for Maintaining Brain Health with ADHD

- National Institute on Aging

Offers comprehensive resources on aging and brain health.

- Alzheimer’s Association

Provides excellent information on brain health and aging, particularly related to Alzheimer's disease.

- Mayo Clinic

Specialized clinics with valuable resources on brain health.

- Family Doctors, Psychiatrists, and Psychologists

Personalized advice and recommendations for brain health, particularly valuable as they can consider individual health and family history.

- LIBRA Lab (Dr. Brandy Callahan’s research group)

For more information on research into ADHD and brain health, visit: www.libralab.ca.

The transition from high school to college is a significant challenge for any student, but for those with ADHD and other learning disabilities, the shift can be even more daunting. In this episode of ADHD 365, we spoke with Elizabeth Hamblet, a learning disabilities consultant with over two decades of experience, about how students who learn differently can successfully navigate the college environment.

Hamblet shares insights on how college differs from high school for students with learning disabilities, the types of accommodations available, and the importance of developing independence before starting college. She emphasizes the need for proper documentation and offers strategies for selecting the right college. She also discusses how parents and educators can support students through this critical transition. With practical advice and a focus on empowerment, this episode provides valuable resources for students and families who are preparing for the college journey.