Kirstin Bouse
Perimenopausal ADHDer Clinical Psychologist and Founder of All About Her - The Centre for Menopause
Before I begin, I want you to know that these articles are written by me, Kirstin, a perimenopausal ADHDer Clinical Psychologist. I’ve written these from my professional knowledge of both peri and ADHD (from research and my clinical practice) and my lived experience. They are written for you, the perimenopausal possibly or definitely ADHD woman. Not for any research paper or peer reviewed journal. And because of this, while I truly do my very best to be accurate AND I’ve written a heap of words, I have kind of cut to the chase with some information. I haven’t broken down all the criteria that someone is required to meet in order to be diagnosed as ADHD. I also haven’t shared all the discussions about whether it’s peri, ADHD or both. There are lots of those. But providing an in-depth essay on them isn't helpful to you. And I want to be helpful. Here’s hoping!
I also want you to know that I am writing from a neurodiversity paradigm. This paradigm is a perspective that understands, accepts and embraces the differences of everyone. It’s based on the premise that there is no single ‘right’ or ‘normal’ neurotype. It rejects the medical model and sees difference, rather than deficit/disorder. This is right for me and for the vast majority of neurodivergent folk. I also want to acknowledge that in many ways, the world is set up for neurodivergent people. We often feel like square pegs in round holes and because of this, it takes more energy to function so that we fit in and meet the expectations of us. My hope is that this will change and that eventually we’ll recognise that there is no binary of neurodiversity (which will include the ‘neurotypical brain’) will be embraced.
In deciding to write on this topic, I recognise that some women already know they are ADHDers before they enter perimenopause. For them, they’ve had time to learn how it impacts their life. Part of that usually includes recognising how their ADHD challenges are magnified and/or when their medication becomes less effective at different times in their menstrual cycle. These women tend to say ‘things get worse’ when they hit perimenopause. They have also provided a wealth of information about the importance of oestrogen to dopamine, which in turn is a neurotransmitter critical to ADHD.
On the other hand, there are women who have begun perimenopause who wonder if the cognitive and psychological challenges they are experiencing are more indicative of ADHD. In these instances, I’ve found that the women have thought about being an ADHDer for a while and/or have had a child assessed for ADHD and ‘seen’ themselves in the questionnaires they complete as part of the assessment process. I have to admit, that was how it all came about for me.
These articles are for all of you. Those who’ve known they are ADHDers and are now in perimenopause. Those who are in perimenopause and wonder if they’re ADHDers. And perhaps even those who are just interested to learn something new - even if it's not relevant to them. That’s pretty cool.
Some of the information may be familiar to you. Some won’t. Either way, as a late diagnosed ADHDer well and truly into perimenopause who also happens to be a Clinical Psychologist ridiculously interested (some might say obsessed, they’re really my SPIN - look it up) with all things menopause and ADHD, I truly hope it is helpful.
Buckle up. There’s a lot of words. Sorry. This is where my hyperfocus is both a blessing and a curse.
My advice? Read it in chunks over as many days/weeks/months as you can be bothered. Find something to fiddle with while you read or jiggle your leg or click your nails on something that makes a noise you enjoy. Mind you, maybe you’ll want to wear your loops. You do you, boo. But most of all, don’t beat yourself up for not knowing this stuff or if you find your mind has wandered. Self-compassion is the biggest muscle you need (and deserve) to grow at this stage of life. Because seriously, perimenopause and ADHD, can be a real [beep].
K
Raising awareness and deepening the understanding of perimenopause and ADHD is crucial—not just important—for timely and effective support. If you suspect you might be one of the many perimenopausal women with ADHD, check out the other articles in this ADHD and Perimenopause Series www.allabouthercentre.com.au and/or seek out a healthcare provider who knows this space well. Feel free to reach out to me via www.allabouhercentre.com.au if you need guidance as to how to go about being assessed or ongoing support.
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