As our guest says it, a lot happens when you have a new creature to care for. The lessons that come when you’re facing the stressors of new parenthood might unlock some things you don’t know about yourself: ADHD. Dr. Marcy Caldwell joins us to tell us all why.

New Parent ADHD Primer with Dr. Marcy Caldwell

Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright offer support, life management strategies, and time and technology tips, dedicated to anyone looking to take control while living with ADHD.

Kids & Family

Health & Fitness

Struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep is a common challenge for those with ADHD. In this episode, Pete and Nikki dive deep into the complex relationship between ADHD and sleep with special guest Dr. Roberto Olivardia. As a clinical psychologist specializing in ADHD treatment, Dr. Olivardia shares his professional and personal insights on this critical topic. He explains how people with ADHD are at higher risk for an array of sleep disorders, from sleep apnea to restless leg syndrome. But beyond diagnosable conditions, those with ADHD often find it difficult to wind down at night due to the constant search for stimulation. Pete, Nikki and Dr. Olivardia discuss practical strategies for improving sleep, some of which may seem counterintuitive. For example, listening to an audiobook or familiar TV show can actually help an ADHD brain relax by providing just the right amount of stimulation. They also bust some common myths, like the idea that you can "catch up" on lost sleep over the weekend. Getting proper sleep is crucial for memory, brain function, and overall health. While it can feel like an uphill battle, this conversation provides both the "why" and the "how" of prioritizing sleep with an ADHD brain. 
(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(01:14) - Support the Show: Become a Patron at patreon.com/theadhdpodcast
(02:59) - Introducing Dr. Roberto Olivardia
(03:52) - Sleep Problems
(07:10) - Disordered Sleep versus ADHD Symptoms
(14:22) - Why Time Matters
(32:46) - How do you know it's a disorder?
(40:04) - ADHD Sleep Behavior


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Snooze Control: Tackling ADHD Sleep Challenges with Dr. Roberto Olivardia

This week on The ADHD Podcast, Pete and Nikki sit down with Dr. Celine Saulnier, a specialist in diagnostic assessment and research on autism spectrum disorders. The conversation delves into the complex relationship between ADHD and autism, shedding light on the often misunderstood overlap between these two neurodevelopmental conditions. Dr. Saulnier explains the evolving diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and how changes in the DSM-5 have allowed for the co-occurring diagnosis of ADHD and autism. She explores the similarities and differences between the two conditions, including the shared challenges with executive functioning and the distinct underlying causes of apparently similar behaviors. The discussion also touches on the unique challenges faced by females with autism, who often fly under the diagnostic radar due to their ability to mask or camouflage their symptoms. Dr. Saulnier emphasizes the importance of comprehensive evaluations by clinicians with expertise in both ADHD and autism to ensure accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans. They navigate the nuances of neurodiversity, the divide within the autism community, and the need for increased awareness and acceptance of neurodiverse individuals. This conversation offers insights for anyone seeking to better understand the complexities of ADHD, autism, and their intersection. 
Links & NotesMeghan Miller on Autism and ADHD risk in siblingsThe Gap Between Adaptive Behavior and Intelligence in Autism Persists into Young Adulthood and is Linked to Psychiatric Co-morbiditiesA review of executive function deficits in autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorderThe Reach and Accuracy of Information on Autism on TikTokDig into the podcast Shownotes Database
(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(01:06) - Support the Show • Become a Patron at https://patreon.com/theadhdpodcast
(02:02) - Introducing Dr. Celine Saulnier
(04:28) - The Autism Primer
(14:58) - The ADHD Connection
(29:19) - Adaptive Skill-Building
(35:40) - Learning about Autism as an Adult


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Understanding the Overlap Between ADHD and Autism with Dr. Celine Saulnier

This week, Nikki and Pete dive into the complex and often overlooked relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Joined by special guest Dr. Jean Doak, a professor of psychiatry and clinical director at the Center for Excellence for Eating Disorders at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the trio explores how these two conditions can intertwine and exacerbate each other. Dr. Doak sheds light on the broad spectrum of eating disorders, extending far beyond the commonly known anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. She emphasizes that eating disorders can manifest in various ways, affecting people of all genders and ages. The discussion delves into the biopsychosocial model, which considers biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to the development of both ADHD and eating disorders. Dr. Doak explores the similarities between ADHD and eating disorders, such as perfectionism, poor impulse control, and difficulties with delayed gratification. They stress the importance of comprehensive screening for co-occurring mental health disorders to provide early intervention and treatment. This episode sheds light on a topic that is often misunderstood. It serves as a reminder for clinicians, individuals with ADHD, and their loved ones to be aware of the potential comorbidity between ADHD and eating disorders. By fostering open discussions and increasing awareness, we can work towards better recognition, support, and treatment for those affected by these challenging conditions.
(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(01:16) - Suppor the show • Become a Patron, Please? https://patreon.com/theadhdpodcast
(02:40) - Introducing Dr. Jean Doak
(03:34) - The Spectrum of Eating Disorders
(17:34) - Comorbidity Complication
(30:14) - Treatment
(41:41) - Intervention
(45:00) - Learn More


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ADHD & Eating Disorders with Dr. Jean Doak

This week, we delve into the introspective realm of self-discovery, exploring the profound impact of understanding the reasons behind our behaviors and actions. The big question: does knowing the difference between ADHD-related struggles and those common to everyone truly matter? 
 We also touch upon the intricate relationship between ADHD and identity, acknowledging the prevalence of the comparison game within the ADHD community. We know what it’s like to grapple with the fear of misdiagnosis and the paradoxical reluctance to hypothetically eradicate ADHD from our lives. 
 Delving deeper into the human psyche, we explore the innate desire to find meaning and purpose behind our experiences. Knowing “ why” drives our actions and emotional reactions, from fostering moral development in children to cultivating mastery in students and nurturing personal relationships. 
 It’s a challenging question and our hope is that we have offered a nuanced perspective on the significance of knowing the difference. While understanding the reasons behind our challenges may not provide an instant solution, it can offer a valuable framework for acceptance, perspective, and effective problem-solving. 
Links & Notes

Dig into the podcast Shownotes Database
(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(01:42) - Support the Show • Become a Patron https://patreon.com/theadhdpodcast
(04:26) - Does Knowing the Difference Matter?


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The Power of Why: Unraveling the Significance of an ADHD Diagnosis

In this episode of The ADHD Podcast, we delve into the complex and often misunderstood connection between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Joined by Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a renowned Clinical Psychologist and Lecturer at Harvard Medical School, the trio embarks on a journey to unravel the intricacies of these two conditions and shed light on the challenges faced by those who experience them simultaneously. 
 With his extensive expertise in treating ADHD, OCD, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Dr. Olivardia provides invaluable insights into the signs, symptoms, and treatments associated with OCD. He explores the common misconceptions surrounding the disorder and discusses how the casual misuse of the term "OCD" in everyday conversation can hinder patients from receiving the proper recognition and support they need. 
 As the conversation unfolds, we navigate the intricate relationship between ADHD and OCD, examining how the symptoms of one condition can influence and exacerbate the other. They explore the potential impact of ADHD's hyperfocus on OCD symptoms and delve into the effectiveness of treating both conditions simultaneously. 
 Join us, and Dr. Olivardia as we embark on this exploration of the ADHD-OCD connection, offering a platform for understanding, empathy, and support for those navigating the complexities of these often intertwined conditions. 
Links & NotesCHADD Annual International Conference on ADHD 202429th Annual OCD Conference 2024Dig into the podcast Shownotes Database
(00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
(00:52) - Support the Show • Become a Patron! Patreon.com/theadhdpodcast
(02:48) - Introducing Dr. Roberto Olivardia
(03:26) - ADHD & OCD
(10:48) - What is OCD?
(15:28) - Exposure
(27:17) - Anxiety & OCD
(44:56) - Treatment
(55:54) - Learn More


  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★


New Parent ADHD Primer with Dr. Marcy Caldwell

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