241 - Women, ADHD and hormones

Advisory: this podcast includes themes of mental health and suicide. Do you find yourself easily distracted, with your attention rapidly shifting between different things? If so, you could be one of the legion of women who are under-diagnosed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Here, Australia-based psychiatrist and ADHD expert Dr David Chapman joins Dr Louise to discuss what ADHD is, how it affects women and the impact that female hormones – which have a powerful role in the brain – can have on symptoms. He talks about how ADHD symptoms can worsen for women just before their periods and around their perimenopause, and sets out the common treatment options, including increasingly the role of HRT and the Pill, and how lifestyle changes such as mindfulness can help women affected by ADHD. Dr Louise and Dr David also discuss how symptoms may only need treating if they are having an impact on a women’s life. Download balance’s ADHD and menopause booklet here. Click here for more about Newson Health. Contact the Samaritans for 24-hour, confidential support by calling 116 123 or email [email protected]