ADHD in Motherhood: The Invisible Overload No One Talks About
Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished on April 23, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Dr. Jolene Brighton discusses the intersection of ADHD, perimenopause, and PMDD, sharing her personal experiences and emphasizing the importance of self-care and specific supplements for managing symptoms. Her upcoming book aims to provide further insights into these challenges faced by women.
Key Points
- ADHD in women often involves more than just distraction; it includes emotional dysregulation and decision fatigue.
- Hormonal changes during perimenopause can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
- Self-care, including exercise and appropriate supplements, is crucial for managing ADHD.
- Creatine and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for brain health.
- Dr. Brighton's upcoming book will address the unique experiences of women with ADHD.
Understanding the Intersection of ADHD, Perimenopause, and PMDD: A Personal Journey
In this blog post, we dive into the complex relationship between ADHD and hormonal changes, specifically focusing on how these factors intersect with perimenopause and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). Dr. Jolene Brighton, our host and a self-identified "AudHD girly," shares her candid experiences and insights on navigating these challenges while juggling motherhood and work.
The Realities of ADHD and Hormonal Changes
ADHD is often misunderstood as simply a distraction disorder. However, for many, it encompasses much more. Individuals with ADHD, particularly women, may struggle with:
- Time blindness
- Chronic decision fatigue
- Emotional dysregulation
- Physical health issues such as endometriosis and PMDD
As Dr. Brighton highlights, hormonal shifts during perimenopause can exacerbate these ADHD symptoms, making daily life feel overwhelming. The pressure of making countless decisions, managing responsibilities, and dealing with internal emotional turmoil can lead to significant distress.
Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned
Dr. Brighton shares her recent struggles, including a hectic schedule filled with work and family obligations. She recounts specific incidents, such as:
- Forgetting her son's first day of school due to time mismanagement
- Experiencing a flare-up related to endometriosis due to stress and lack of self-care
- Chasing a rat in her house while trying to meet a book deadline
Through these anecdotes, she emphasizes the importance of self-care, routine, and the non-negotiable need for exercise to manage ADHD symptoms effectively.
Essential Supplements and Lifestyle Adjustments
In her journey, Dr. Brighton identifies several key supplements and lifestyle choices that can help manage ADHD symptoms, especially during hormonal fluctuations:
- Creatine: Used to enhance brain energy production, especially during the luteal phase.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Recommended at higher doses to support cognitive health and reduce inflammation.
- Magnesium: Aids in muscle relaxation and can help manage pain.
- Saffron: Included in her supplement Radiant Mind, it has been shown to help with PMDD symptoms.
Dr. Brighton stresses the importance of an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene to combat the effects of ADHD and hormonal changes.
Conclusion: Navigating the Journey
Dr. Brighton’s transparency about her struggles and strategies offers valuable insights for others facing similar challenges. She encourages women to recognize their unique experiences and the societal expectations that often add to their burdens. As she prepares to release her upcoming book, "ADHD and Women," she hopes to provide further clarity and support for those navigating ADHD, PMDD, and hormonal changes.
Remember, if you are experiencing these challenges, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you thrive.