Often, women and girls with ADHD tend to get missed. They are under-diagnosed, often misdiagnosed, and generally overlooked. At our clinic, we often see adult women who have been anxious or depressed for years. Then, in the end, we find out that ADHD was actually the root of their issues all along.
So why does this happen? Why have there been so many undiagnosed women with ADHD?
You Mean I'm not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy?! is a title of a book written for ADHD adults by Kate Kelley and Peggy Ramundo. We recommend checking out the book - but this post is not about the book. This post is about getting an ADHD diagnosis, and how powerful it can be to learn about the impact of ADHD symptoms on your life.
In honor of Mental Health Week, we wanted to share the story of Peter Shankman.
Peter is a CEO, author, speaker, and all around impressive guy. Peter is also an individual diagnosed with ADHD. Not only that, he's learned to use his diagnosis to his advantage, rather than a disability. In fact, he's used his strengths and managed his challenges in a way that has led to much of his success!
Check out this article by Rick Green with a new quiz to help you rule out having ADHD. It's a funny post that gives a different perspective on life with ADHD vs. our "neurotypical peers."
A few highlights:
The idea that sugar can make ADHD symptoms worse is prevalent, but how true is it? Right now, it seems like the majority of the research out there has not supported this theory. Yes, you can find a study here and there about a connection between a high sugar diet and hyperactivity. But, most of the medical industry maintains that there isn't a clear link between the two.
In the article I have ADHD - Curb your Enthusiasm, Rick Green talks frankly about ADHD awareness and stigma. As a community, we've come a long way in understanding ADHD and reducing the negativity around it, but it seems we still have a long way to go.
