In this episode, Johanna shares her deeply personal journey of navigating her ADHD diagnosis during her postpartum period. She discusses the misconceptions surrounding postpartum mental health, the impact of neurodivergence, and the challenges faced by women in similar situations. Johanna highlights her struggles with emotional regulation, executive dysfunction, and the overwhelming mental load of parenting. She also reflects on her journey to diagnosis, the role of medication, and the importance of seeking support. Ultimately, she emphasizes the need for self-compassion and understanding in the face of these challenges.

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Instagram: ⁠@adhdherway⁠ and @adhdwithjohannab

Email: ⁠[email protected]

Keywords: ADHD, postpartum, neurodivergence, mental health, women, diagnosis, medication, emotional regulation, parenting, support

takeaways

• ADHD can manifest differently in women, especially postpartum.
• Postpartum mental health issues often include neurodivergence, not just depression or anxiety.
• Hormonal changes can exacerbate ADHD symptoms during postpartum.
• Seeking support from health professionals is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• Medication can significantly improve emotional regulation and daily functioning.
• Self-compassion is essential for parents navigating mental health challenges.
• Community support can provide validation and understanding.
• Tracking hormonal cycles can help manage ADHD symptoms.
• It's important to advocate for oneself in healthcare settings.
• Women should not feel ashamed to seek help for their mental health.

• Navigating ADHD in Postpartum: A Personal Journey
• Understanding Neurodivergence in Women's Mental Health

Soundbites

• "I want to share my ADHD diagnostic journey."
• "The mental load felt pretty unbearable."
• "You're not failing, you're not broken."

Chapters

00:00Navigating ADHD Diagnosis During Postpartum

01:20Understanding Neurodivergence and Postpartum Mental Health

03:27The Impact of Hormones on ADHD Symptoms

05:52Seeking Help and Getting Diagnosed

08:03The Role of Medication in Managing ADHD

10:36Self-Compassion and Support Systems

13:11Lessons Learned and Future Considerations

20:43Outro ADHD Her Way podcast .mp3