Ever walked into a room and immediately forgotten why you were there? Or stared at your to-do list like it was written in a foreign language? You’re not alone, and no, it’s not always just “getting older” or “mom brain.” This week, we’re tackling a topic that’s been blowing up in conversations lately: ADHD in women and how it can show up with a vengeance during perimenopause and menopause. For instance, forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and impulsivity are some common symptoms.

We’ll break down:

💡 What ADHD actually looks like in real life (hint: it’s not all bouncing off the walls)

💡 How hormone shifts, especially dropping estrogen, turn ADHD symptoms up to full volume

💡 The surprising ways progesterone and testosterone play into focus, mood, and motivation

💡 Why some women only get diagnosed in midlife

💡 How ADHD symptoms are often overlooked in women because the diagnostic tools were made for men

💡 The difference between menopause brain fog and ADHD inattention and why it matters

💡 How your ADHD medication may feel “off” during certain phases of your cycle (and what research says about adjusting)

💡 What you can do right now to support your brain, from cycle tracking and optimizing hormones to nutrition, movement, and supplements that have evidence behind them

We’ll also dive into fascinating new research on estrogen’s role in dopamine production and receptor sensitivity. This research suggests that estrogen, a hormone that fluctuates significantly during perimenopause and menopause, plays a crucial role in the brain's reward system, affecting mood, motivation, and focus. This is why scientists are calling brain fog, mood swings, and focus issues neurological, not just hormonal.

If you’ve been feeling like your brain went from Google Fiber to dial-up speed, or wondering why your once-manageable ADHD feels unmanageable, this episode is for you. We’re here with the science, the strategies, and the “OMG that’s me” moments you’ve been looking for.

Because you deserve more than “deal with it”, you deserve answers, tools, and a whole lot of compassion.