⚠️ Trigger Warning:

This episode includes a discussion of a recent endometrial cancer scare, medical procedures, and the emotional toll of waiting for test results. We also explore themes of medical gaslighting, hormonal changes, and the mental health challenges faced by neurodivergent women. Please take care while listening.

Episode 6 summary:

In this powerful episode, Sarah shares the story of a recent endometrial cancer biopsy and the internalized urge to stay silent in order to protect others. Chrissy and Sarah unpack how women—especially ND women—are often conditioned to minimize their pain and navigate peri/menopause alone.

Together, they explore:

• The emotional strain of waiting for medical results

• Why women delay or avoid sharing serious health concerns

• The intersection of ADHD, hormonal shifts, and medical gaslighting

• The importance of self-advocacy, regular check-ups, and speaking up

• How partners, friends, and communities can show up with real support

• And why breaking the silence around women’s health isn’t just important—it’s life-saving.

This one’s honest, raw, and a reminder that none of us should have to suffer quietly. 💥

SUMMARY:

In this episode of ADHD Peri Punks, we dive into our journey of launching the podcast, discussing the intersection of ADHD and peri/menopause. We explore the importance of communication with partners, the impact of hormonal changes on mental health, and the need for education and awareness surrounding these topics. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, we also emphasize the significance of open conversations and support systems for women navigating these challenges and the importance of not resisting and/or lying about our need for rest!

TAKEAWAYS:

The podcast aims to empower women navigating ADHD and perimenopause.

Communication with partners is crucial for understanding and support.

Hormonal changes can significantly impact mental health and relationships.

Education and awareness about ADHD and menopause are essential.

Personal experiences highlight the challenges faced by women in midlife.

Open conversations can help break the stigma surrounding these topics.

Support systems are vital for women dealing with ADHD and hormonal changes.

The importance of sharing experiences to foster community and understanding.

Men should be included in conversations about menopause and ADHD.

Self-advocacy and empowerment are key in managing health.

The Interview with Sarah was recorded in October 2024, so all dates/months referred to therein refer to 2024 and prior.

Summary

In this episode of ADHD Peripunks, hosts Sarah and Chrissy dive deep into the intersection of ADHD and menopause, exploring the unique challenges faced by women navigating these life stages. They discuss the importance of community, self-advocacy, and humor in coping with the emotional and physical toll of these experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness, support, and the power of shared experiences to empower women and break down stigmas surrounding ADHD and menopause.

Takeaways

• ADHD and menopause can create unique challenges for women.
• Community support is crucial for navigating ADHD and menopause.
• Self-advocacy is essential in seeking help and understanding.
• Rest and self-care are as important as productivity.
• Humor can be a powerful coping mechanism.
• Women often bear the brunt of invisible labor in families.
• It's important to validate one's feelings and experiences.
• Finding the right professionals who listen is key.
• Self-acceptance can lead to better mental health.
• Empowering the next generation involves open conversations about these issues.

Sound Bites

"It's a fucking odyssey."

"Self-acceptance is crucial."

"Humor is a coping mechanism."

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:17 Hot Flashes and Hyperfocus

07:13 Medication or Meditation

08:44 Redefining Normal

09:37 Unlearning ableism and giving yourself grace

14:20 Fuck Capitalism: The Ironic Entrepreneur

20:03 Hacking ADHD and Menopause? Mwahahahahaha

23:57 Humor as a Necessary Part of Survival

27:49 The Importance of Sharing our ADHD and Peri/Menopause Stories

35:12 Hormones and Hilarity

38:37 Advice for future generations?

44:05 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Keywords

ADHD, menopause, perimenopause, neurodivergent, women empowerment, mental health, self-advocacy, humor, community, identity