Why ADHD Looks Different in Women and How Your Period and Menopause Affect Symptoms - With Dr. Jolene Brighten

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is often associated with symptoms like being unable to focus, hyperactivity, and trouble managing time. But ADHD can present in a myriad of different ways, and women have long been overlooked and underdiagnosed when it comes to these kinds of neurodivergent conditions. Today, you’re going to discover what ADHD is like for women, why it’s different than the way it presents in men, and what you can actually do to work alongside your brain for better health and efficiency.  

Dr. Jolene Brighten is an internationally recognized hormone expert, nutrition scientist, and a bestselling author. Her newest book, ADHD and Women is an enlightening guide to the link between hormones and neurodivergence. Today, Dr. Brighten is back on The Model Health Show for another engaging, informative conversation.

In this interview, you’re going to learn about what ADHD looks like in women, and specific strategies you can use to optimize your hormones and support your mental health. You’ll learn about the specific conditions that are cooccurring with ADHD, strategies and tools you can use to thrive through different phases of life, and why understanding the connection between your brain and your hormones can help you perform at a higher level. I hope you enjoy this interview with Dr. Brighten!  

In this episode you’ll discover:

Why ADHD presents differently in women. (8:32) 

How hormones can impact ADHD symptoms. (9:55) 

Why perimenopause impacts women with ADHD differently. (13:18)

How ADHD can lead to a shorter lifespan. (14:35)

Why the name ADHD is a misnomer. (17:58)

The relationship between dopamine and ADHD. (20:21)

How ADHD and PMOS (formerly PCOS) are connected. (26:37) 

Why ADHD, postpartum depression, and PMDD are linked. (28:25)