In this solo episode, I explore the complex relationship between PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and neurodivergence, including ADHD, autism, depression, and PTSD. Learn what PMDD is, how it differs from PMS, and why it disproportionately affects neurodivergent individuals.

Bonus Free Resource: Download my free 14-page guide Is It More Than PMS? Understanding PMDD which includes a checklist to help you identify if your symptoms are PMDD or PMS. Download here.

Key Topics Covered:

• The key symptoms that impact daily life - such as mood swings, anxiety, and physical discomfort.
• Current treatment options like SSRIs, contraceptive pills, lifestyle changes, and naturopathy, with my honest take on their effectiveness.
• Practical tips on tracking your cycle, planning around challenging days, and setting boundaries with family and friends, based on my personal experiences managing PMDD.
• The importance of awareness and community support for those navigating the storm of PMDD.

PMDD isn’t just about feeling a bit off; it’s about those days when you wonder if you’re losing your mind, feel like packing up and leaving, or even question if you can keep going. These feelings are valid, real, and often tied directly to hormonal changes.

If you’ve been feeling like your symptoms go way beyond regular PMS, you’re not alone. It’s not “just in your head,” and there are ways to manage it. Understanding what PMDD is, how it shows up, and why it tends to impact neurodivergent people more can help you start navigating this challenging part of your cycle.

Research: I discuss insights from the National Autistic Society on how hormonal changes, such as menstruation and menopause, impact autistic individuals.

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If you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!

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If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.

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- YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCB0uYIHpFKFo6AdhQQaBr1w

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In this solo episode, I discuss a hot topic that affects so many women: PMS and ADHD. If you’ve ever felt like your ADHD symptoms become a chaotic mess during certain times of the month, you’re not alone. Hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact mood, focus, and productivity, and we’re here to help you make sense of it all.

Additional Free Resource: Download my free guide on PMS and ADHD: Making Sense of the Chaos for practical tips, insights, and tools to help you navigate the impact of PMDD on neurodivergent symptoms. Download here.

Key Topics Covered:

• Learn how hormonal changes throughout your menstrual cycle can intensify ADHD symptoms like irritability, forgetfulness, and impulsivity.
• Discover the benefits of tracking your menstrual cycle to identify patterns in your symptoms and understand how hormonal shifts affect your mood and executive function.
• Get actionable tips on how to adjust your daily activities, work schedule, and self-care practices based on your hormonal fluctuations.
• Explore ways to manage those challenging days when ADHD symptoms spike before your period, including setting boundaries, communicating with loved ones, and planning ahead.
• This episode is all about recognising and validating your experiences with PMS and ADHD. Understand that you’re not alone in feeling this way and that your fluctuating symptoms are a genuine part of your experience.

If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or out of control every month, this episode offers validation, examples, and a clearer understanding of how to navigate the rollercoaster of ADHD and PMS. It’s about learning to recognise your patterns and finding reassurance that your experiences are real and valid.

Resources Mentioned:

• Season 1, Episode 43 - PMS and ADHD with Kylie Smart: For a deeper dive into PMS and ADHD, including supplement treatment options.

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!

CONNECT WITH ME

If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.

FOLLOW FOR MORE

I post more content, insights and help on my social media accounts. Follow along for more ADHD mum content.

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_mums

- Facebook: https://facebook.com/100091850469503/

- TikTok:

In this episode, Jane is joined by Monique Mitchelson, a clinical psychologist specialising in autism, ADHD, trauma, chronic illness, and pain. Monique, co-director of Divergent Futures and co-host of the Neurodivergent Woman Podcast, shares her experiences of late diagnosis and the reality of self-advocacy for autistic and ADHD adults.

Key Topics Covered:

• The need for neurodiversity-affirming care and shifting away from outdated practices
• Practical ways to support children with different brain types in schools and at home
• Destigmatising medication and fostering self-acceptance for ADHD and autism
• Real-life examples of how Monique navigates life as an autistic and ADHD adult
• Insights into creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals

If you want to understand what it means to be neuro-affirming or how to support yourself or your loved ones, this episode is a must-listen. It provides practical advice, real-life examples, and a clear understanding of why neurodiversity-affirming practices are crucial - not just for autistic and ADHD individuals but for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Resources Mentioned

• Monique's Book: The Neurodivergent Skills Workbook for Autism and ADHD available on Amazon and Audible
• Neurodivergent Woman Podcast co-hosted by Monique: listen on Apple and Spotify
• The Brain Forest by Sandhya Menon

Connect with Monique

• Visit Divergent Futures for training and consulting opportunities with Monique
• Follow Monique on Instagram @neurodivergent_women_podcast or @moniquemitchelson.nd.psych for updates and insights

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In this solo episode, I take you on a personal journey, sharing my experiences of living with undiagnosed ADHD while juggling the demands of motherhood.

Key Topics Covered:

• Life Before Diagnosis: I open up about the chaotic mornings, constant overwhelm, and the never-ending feeling of being behind. From missing library days to forgetting crucial school events, I share the realities of trying to manage a household and kids without understanding why everything felt so hard.
• The Turning Point: Discover how the challenges of managing my children's school and daily routines eventually led me to seek a diagnosis. I talk about the impact of finally understanding my brain and how it has renewed my confidence in being a mum.
• ADHD and Motherhood: The episode delves into how ADHD can affect every aspect of life, especially for mums. I discuss the unique challenges of managing both personal and family responsibilities, the struggle with imposter syndrome, and the importance of self-care.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the struggles many mums face when living with undiagnosed ADHD. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone and that understanding your ADHD can be the key to thriving in both motherhood and life.

Resources Mentioned:

ADHD Pre-Diagnosis Workbook: Available now on my website, this workbook is designed to help you confidently navigate the diagnostic process. This resource provides practical advice, step-by-step instructions, and insights into how ADHD presents in women, helping you prepare for your diagnosis appointment.

Related Podcast Episodes:

• Season 1, Episode 35: Do You Have ADHD or Is This Mum Life?
• Season 1, Episode 38: My Diagnosis Journey with Jasmine Meek (Part 1)

If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to explore the resources mentioned and, most importantly, to take the time to care for yourself. Putting your oxygen mask on first isn’t selfish - it’s essential for your well-being and your family’s success.

Join our ADHD Mums Podcast Facebook Community to connect with other mums who understand the unique challenges of ADHD, share your experiences, and find support.

Research:

**Note some of these statistics are based on US figures, primarily because Australian research into ADHD is still a developing area**

The Prevalence and Correlates of Adult ADHD in the United States: Results From the National Comorbidity Survey Replication

https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/ajp.2006.163.4.716

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!

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If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our...

In this episode, Jane welcomes back Dr Jacinta Thomson, a beloved guest and Clinical Psychologist whose previous episodes on ADHD diagnosis and the distinctions between Autism and ADHD have resonated deeply with listeners. This time, Jacinta brings a unique idea to the table - an exploration of the shared language that has developed within the ADHD community.

Key topics covered include:

• Jacinta quizzes Jane on ADHD-related terms like 'dopamining,' 'internest,' and 'side quests,' showcasing how language captures the daily experiences and challenges of ADHD.
• 35 minutes in: Jacinta offers her perspective on why many in the neurodivergent community prefer identity-first language (e.g., "I am autistic") and the importance of respecting individual preferences in how people choose to describe their experiences.
• The episode delves into the ongoing conversation around finding a name for ADHD that more accurately reflects its characteristics. Jane and Jacinta discuss the complexities and varied opinions on this topic.

This episode offers a thoughtful discussion on how language shapes our understanding of ADHD, with Jacinta guiding the conversation through her unique perspective. While the episode includes light-hearted moments, the focus remains on providing valuable insights into how ADHD is perceived and communicated.

Previous episodes with Dr Jacinta Thomson:

• How to get a diagnosis in Australia? Part 1. Interview with Dr Jacinta Thomson
• How to get a diagnosis in Australia? Part 2. Interview with Dr Jacinta Thomson
• Is Overwhelmed Mum Syndrome real? with Dr Jacinta Thomson
• Unique Differences of ADHD and Autism in Women with Dr. Jacinta Thomson

For further discussion and support, join our ADHD Mums Facebook Group

If you'd like to know more about Dr Jacinta Thomson check her out here: www.timetountangle.com.au/

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!

CONNECT WITH ME...

If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.

FOLLOW FOR MORE...

I post more content, insights and help on my social media accounts. Follow along for more ADHD mum content.

- Instagram:

In this episode, Jane dives into the complexities and frustrations of the ADHD diagnosis process with Dena Robertson, a 39-year-old widow and single mum of two girls. Dena shares her distressing journey through the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD - both for herself and her daughter, Ruby - highlighting the significant challenges they faced along the way.

**Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics, including self-harm and the loss of a loved one.**

Key topics covered include:

• Dena’s experience of being medically gaslit for years, with her symptoms dismissed as anxiety, depression, or stress, and the profound impact this had on her mental health and self-esteem.
• The emotional toll of advocating for yourself and your children in a system that often dismisses neurodivergent women and girls.
• The stark differences between Dena’s own ADHD assessment process and the struggle to get Ruby diagnosed.
• The ongoing challenges of finding the right support.
• Strategies for pushing through frustration and seeking the right diagnosis and treatment, particularly for neurodivergent girls who often present differently than boys.

The conversation underscores the importance of persistence and proactivity in navigating the ADHD diagnosis process. If you’re navigating this journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights, empathy, and a sense of camaraderie in the shared struggles of the neurodivergent community.

If you’d like to connect with Dena or learn more about navigating the ADHD diagnosis process, join the ADHD Mums Facebook Group.

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!

CONNECT WITH ME...

If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.

FOLLOW FOR MORE...

I post more content, insights and help on my social media accounts. Follow along for more ADHD mum content.

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_mums

- Facebook: https://facebook.com/100091850469503/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhdmumsaus

- YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCB0uYIHpFKFo6AdhQQaBr1w

LEAVE ME A REVIEW

Your review means the world to me! Your thoughts really help others discover my content that I genuinely (and passionately) hope could make a difference in their lives. Your support creates a ripple effect of spreading my show around and hopefully reaching the right people (especially Mum’s who may be at their wit’s end).

WANT TO COLLABORATE?

If you’re enquiring about a collaboration or speaking engagement – please email

In this episode, Jane interviews Dr Justin Coulson, one of Australia's most trusted parenting experts and the co-host of Channel 9's Parental Guidance. Dr Coulson is also the founder of Happy Families and has a PhD in psychology from the University of Wollongong. He shares his lived experience with neurodivergence, offering valuable insights into the challenges of parenting ADHD children.

Key topics covered include:

• The pros and cons of using iPads as a morning motivator for ADHD kids.
• Justin’s personal strategies for managing ADHD traits and avoiding burnout.
• The importance of structure and routine in neurodivergent families.
• The benefits of unstructured outdoor play for building resilience and self-regulation.
• How to navigate the highs and lows of neurodivergence in both parenting and personal life.

**Setting your morning up starts at 13 minutes in**

**iPads before school starts at 15 minutes in**

The conversation highlights the importance of understanding your child’s needs and creating supportive environments to make parenting a bit easier.

If you’d like to know more about Dr Justin Coulson and Happy Families, visit https://www.happyfamilies.com.au

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!

CONNECT WITH ME...

If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group - Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/777102743903210/

FOLLOW FOR MORE...

I post more content, insights and help on my social media accounts. Follow along for more ADHD mum content.

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_mums

- Facebook: https://facebook.com/100091850469503/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhdmumsaus

- YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCB0uYIHpFKFo6AdhQQaBr1w

LEAVE ME A REVIEW

Your review means the world to me! Your thoughts really help others discover my content that I genuinely (and passionately) hope could make a difference in their lives. Your support creates a ripple effect of spreading my show around and hopefully reaching the right people (especially Mum’s who may be at their wit’s end).

WANT TO COLLABORATE?

If you’re enquiring about a collaboration or speaking engagement – please email jane@adhdmums.com.au.

EXTRA RESOURCES:

Still not sure if you have ADHD or are Autistic? Get access to my recommended self tests as a guide to whether you should go for an assessment or not.

In this episode, Jane interviews Lindsay Keating who is an ADHD Mum who has battled for over 20 years with Anorexia.

**Trigger warning, this episode discusses Anorexia Nervosa**

Jane and Lindsay tackles common misconceptions about eating disorders, specifically the tendency to minimise them as mere attention-seeking behaviors.

The discussion emphasises that dismissing these signs can be harmful, and instead suggests giving the affected individuals the attention they may need. The conversation underscores the importance of taking such signs seriously, as each person's experience with an eating disorder is unique.

If you'd like to know more about Lindsay and Nature Moves visit https://www.naturemoves.com.au/

CONNECT WITH ME...

If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group - Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/777102743903210/

FOLLOW FOR MORE...

I post more content, insights and help on my social media accounts. Follow along for more ADHD mum content.

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_mums

- Facebook: https://facebook.com/100091850469503/

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhdmumsaus

- YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCB0uYIHpFKFo6AdhQQaBr1w

LEAVE ME A REVIEW

Your review means the world to me! Your thoughts really help others discover my content that I genuinely (and passionately) hope could make a difference in their lives. Your support creates a ripple effect of spreading my show around and hopefully reaching the right people (especially Mum’s who may be at their wit’s end).

WANT TO COLLABORATE?

If you’re enquiring about a collaboration or speaking engagement – please email jane@adhdmums.com.au.

EXTRA RESOURCES:

Still not sure if you have ADHD or are Autistic? Get access to my recommended self tests as a guide to whether you should go for an assessment or not. https://adhdmums.com.au/self-tests/

Can I access the NDIS? Use this link to get a free guide to the NDIS to start you on your journey. https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/768431/114109386760128004/share

Find more answers, resources and guides on my website at https://adhdmums.com.au/

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