Episode 80 - Anxiety and ADHD part 2

This episode continues a deeply personal conversation between Jami Shapiro and her longtime friend and collaborator Lynn, as they explore the lifelong impact of ADHD, especially for women who were never diagnosed growing up.In Part 2, Lynn shares more of her childhood experiences—growing up with anxiety, night terrors, hyperactivity, and creativity—long before ADHD was widely understood or diagnosed in girls. Through therapy, structure, and the support of her parents, she slowly developed tools that helped her navigate school, relationships, and life.Jami and Lynn also discuss the realities of ADHD in adulthood, including motherhood, work, aging, and the pressure women feel to “hold everything together” for their families.This episode highlights an important message: ADHD doesn’t disappear with age—and many women are only discovering it later in life.In This EpisodeWhy Jami created the first-ever two-part episodeLynn’s childhood experiences with anxiety, insomnia, and hyperactive creativityThe therapist who helped introduce structure and boundariesHow ADHD can go unnoticed in girlsThe role of sports, activity, and structure in managing symptomsGrowing up feeling “too much” or differentBullying, friendships, and rejection sensitivityADHD in parenting and family dynamicsWhy ADHD in mothers affects the household differentlyLate-life ADHD discovery and menopauseThe origin and purpose of the Sparkler SocietyKey TakeawaysADHD Often Goes Undiagnosed in GirlsMany women grew up believing ADHD only affected hyperactive boys. As a result, generations of women never received a diagnosis or proper support.Structure Can Be Life-ChangingLynn’s therapist didn’t label her condition but instead provided practical tools, boundaries, and structure that helped her gradually improve sleep, focus, and confidence.Women Carry the Mental LoadJami explains how ADHD can hit women harder because mothers are often expected to manage the household’s executive functioning.ADHD Doesn’t Go Away With AgeIn fact, symptoms can intensify later in life due to hormonal changes, stress, or aging.Memorable MomentsLynn’s parents using sports and activities to help channel her energyThe “tape on the floor” technique used to create nighttime boundariesThe viral story of Lynn’s mother’s humorous tombstoneJami reflecting on how ADHD shaped her career helping seniors with downsizingThe powerful realization that ADHD may run through generations of familiesAbout the Sparkler SocietyJami and Lynn are building a new community called The Sparkler Society, designed for women with ADHD who want support, structure, and connection.The community will include:Weekly live group sessionsBody doubling for productivityADHD coaching and supportDecluttering and downsizing guidanceConversations about spending habits and unfinished projectsThe official launch is planned for July 2026.Resources MentionedJami Shapiro’s book: This Explains So MuchSilver Linings TransitionsADHD coaching and community support resourcesConnect with JamiWebsite:https://jamishapiro.meBook:This Explains So Much: Understanding Undiagnosed ADHDIf You Loved This EpisodeShare the podcast with someone who might relateLeave a review to help more people discover itFollow the show for more real conversations about ADHDThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life.Follow us:Instagram:@grandma_has_adhd@silverliningstransitionsFacebook:Silver Linings TransitionsGrandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group)Youtube:Grandma Has ADHD