Episode 22 Unmasking ADHD: Finding Strength, Struggles, and Support with Debbie Thompson

🧠 Key Topics & Takeaways:The real-life challenges of diagnosing ADHD in children—especially girls How ADHD manifests differently in boys vs. girls (and why so many go undiagnosed) The power of routine, movement, and mindfulness in managing ADHD Why emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitivity are often overlooked The importance of seeing ADHD as a difference, not a disorder  💬 Memorable Quotes:“I thought ADHD was just boys bouncing off walls... I didn’t know emotional dysregulation was part of it.” — Debbie Thompson“We tell Jackson it's his superpower—he sees things others don’t.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“When kids are told off 10 times more, their self-esteem suffers. We need to look for their spark.” — Debbie Thompson 🕒 Key Moments:00:00 – Sarah shares her son Jackson’s ADHD diagnosis story 03:00 – Debbie recalls her son's late diagnosis and emotional toll 06:00 – Why girls often mask ADHD—and how it leads to burnout 10:30 – The power of understanding ADHD beyond the stereotype 17:00 – Taekwondo story: Jackson learns self-regulation in real-time 28:00 – Movement and sleep as foundational ADHD supports 36:00 – The medication journey: what worked and what didn’t 49:00 – A message to overwhelmed parents: “Be kind to yourself” 👥 Guest:Debbie ThompsonFounder of ADD-Vantage, ADHD coach and educatorWebsite & ADHD support tools: [Insert Website URL]Explore her curated ADHD chatbot: [Insert URL if available] 🧰 Resources Mentioned:ADD-Vantage ADHD AI Chat Assistant Kids Learning Tube (for ADHD-friendly learning topics) Brené Brown on belonging vs. fitting in 📣 Call-to-Action:If this episode moved you, helped you feel seen, or gave you new tools—please share it. Whether it’s a fellow parent, your child’s teacher, or that mum at the school gate who looks like she needs a little hope—your share might be the spark that changes someone’s day.🎧 Listen now and let’s break the silence together.