Kansas City, KS - Distracted. Disorganized. Forgetful. For some women, those struggles can follow them for decades without realizing there may be a reason. Three women share what it was like to finally be diagnosed with ADHD as adults and how getting answers changed the way they understood themselves. Coming up on All Things Brain Health, experts explain why ADHD can look different in women, how it can affect far more than your ability to focus and what adults should know if they're wondering, “Could this be me?”
Dr. Danielle Johnson, Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist, The University of Kansas Health System
- Dr. Johnson explains why ADHD has historically been overlooked in girls and women, whose symptoms may be dismissed as being “flighty,” chatty or disorganized rather than recognized as ADHD.
- She discusses how people can spend years masking or compensating for symptoms, sometimes not recognizing ADHD until adulthood.
- She addresses common misconceptions, including that ADHD is caused by bad parenting or laziness and that someone who isn't hyperactive can't have ADHD.
Dr. Mitchell Douglass, Medical Director, Marillac, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, The University of Kansas Health System
- Dr. Douglass explains what ADHD is and some of the earliest signs parents and teachers may notice in children.
- He discusses the emotional toll of repeatedly being redirected, reprimanded or misunderstood when ADHD has not been recognized.
- He tackles the belief that ADHD is over diagnosed and addresses concerns about whether ADHD medications are addictive.
- He discusses treatment options, including medication and therapy, and why the right approach can differ from person to person.
