Motherhood in ADHD – Parenting with ADHD, Productivity Tips, Brain based Science, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Education to Help Moms with Adult ADHD

When you don't realize that you're frustrated until after you're yelling at your entire family… When you don't notice you have to pee until it's an emergency… When you don't catch that you've been thirsty for hours… It's embarrassing, frustrating, or both when you don't feel like you're in control of your own body. Struggling with your interoception is an everyday occurrence for people with ADHD. How can you strengthen your awareness and tune into your body's cues so that you feel more sturdy, stable, and present throughout your day? Today's guests and friends, Elizabeth Brink and Anna Lopez share how you can begin to listen to your body and feel connected to your brain, body, and feelings. Anna Lopez is a neurodivergent, single, mom of two boys living in Austin, TX. She's a psychotherapist, psychiatric PA, and neurodivergent coach, who loves helping people learn about their brain and lift the shame of the way it shapes how they show up in the world. Elizabeth Brink is a trauma-informed, body-based coach for neurodivergent people. Elizabeth believes the wisdom of the body offers a unique shortcut to fully embracing the self, which is critical for lasting change. We dive into polyvagal theory, somatics, and interoception, to link the science and the art of listening to yourself and building your self-trust. Connect with Elizabeth and Anna, find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-178-adhd-hypersensitivity-sensory-overload-interoception-and-somatics-elizabeth-brink-and-anna-lopez

When you live on the water, you need different things: Sturdier, waterproof supplies. Hurricane-proof windows. Lots of rope to tie down your things. Life at sea is rough on the merchandise. Are you prepared for the storms? Are you ready for the incoming tide? Or are you drowning while everyone around you asks why don't you just write yourself a to-do list? It's time to take lessons from a sea-worn sailor. Hop into my boat and let's go for a ride! Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-177-lost-at-sea-with-adhd-stop-floundering

For a long time, body doubling made me want to cringe. I prided myself on being a self-starter. I didn't need help. And I certainly didn't want anyone watching me do stuff. Eep! Perfectionist alert! Was I totally wrong about body doubling? Could it be a way for ADHD brains to get more done? To feel accomplished? To stay motivated and finish tasks? Have I found a way to make this work for me or do I still recoil with heebie jeebies? Let's discuss! Links mentioned in this episode: Overcomer ADHD Time Blindness Sandra Coral's Podcast - Neurodivergent Narratives To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

Having someone on your side who understands makes everything easier. Especially when you're learning how to navigate parenting your neurodivergent child. As a child psychologist, Dr. Carrie Jackson coaches parents on how to work in harmony with their ADHD child. As someone who also has ADHD herself, she helps parents with novel strategies that fit with their own, as well as their child's neurodiverse brains. On today's episode we talk about avoiding major meltdowns by learning your child's patterns, diffusing tense situations, navigating when to step into your child's conflict and when to let them resolve it on their own. You can use many of these emotional regulation strategies for your own neurodivergence, too, mama! Let's lean into working with our ADHD brains instead of against them. Find more about Dr. Carrie and download her free resources at www.iparentadhd.com or download her app https://www.smartcookie.app/adhd-program/. To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog. Looking for your kind of people? Join our free Facebook community for a supportive group of ADHD moms to lean on during your ADHD mom journey.

I hate goal trackers. They are sticker charts for grownups. (I also despise sticker charts.) I'm not a New Year's resolution person. I never stick with them. I'm annoyed by the New Year, New You messaging in January. Barf. I am, however, big into Growth. Goals. Being the best version of you. Goal setting is difficult for ADHD so I'm offering 3 questions to ask yourself as you wrap up the year and look ahead to the new year. Let's change it up and think about the new year in an ADHD-friendly way. You are more than your failed goals. In the process, I'm sharing behind the scenes of what I'm no longer here for and what I have planned for ADHD Moms in 2023. Let's do things differently, Successful Mama. Links mentioned in this episode: The Post-Holiday Hangover Cure for Disorganized Mamas Successful Mama Gift Certificates 2023 Group Coaching Survey To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

We're in the thick of the holidays and perhaps your sanity is already wavering. School performances, shopping, baking, less sleep, unusual schedules, no routines, more asks… yikes! We still have 2 more weeks to go! In today's episode, I'm sharing 4 ways to lower your stress and make the holidays enjoyable for both you and your family. Free resources mentioned in today's episode: 3 Steps for Preparing for the Holidays The Post-Holiday Hangover Cure for Disorganized Mamas Not sure what to put on your holiday wish list? Ask for a Successful Mama Gift Certificate and choose your course, community, coaching, or retreat next year to lower your stress, take care of yourself, and get your life in order. To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan? While many kids with ADHD do well in school, a much greater percentage struggle to excel. The system is complicated and confusing. The first step is understanding what your options are. In public schools in the US, there are both 504 plans and IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) to help students with disabilities struggle less. Today I'm inviting you into an ADHD coaching call with a mom who asked for help in understanding how to help her son who seems to be doing okay so far… but what about when he doesn't? While we usually focus on you, the mom, in your coaching call, we often we will discuss your kids because they are who made you a mom! Because I have worked in both public and private middle schools before I became a mom, I want to share with you a simple explanation on the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan. Plus I'm including my two cents on when is a good time to seek out these accommodations for your child. Grab your free ADHD Strategy Guide: My Secret to Overcoming Time Blindness To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

Thank you, sweet mama! In the US, it's Thanksgiving today and I'm so thankful for you and this community. And to say thank you, I'm sharing my Black Friday specials today. You can grab them through Cyber Monday with the coupon codes on my website. If you've been thinking of joining me for a course, community, or coaching in 2023, this weekend is the best time to do it! You can join Successful Mama Meetups for a sweet deal, grab a gift certificate for 10%-15% off, or get a PatriciaPay bonus of 10% on your purchase this weekend. If you're not sure what to put on your holiday wish list, might I suggest a gift certificate for next year's annual ADHD Moms retreat, coaching, or learning more about your ADHD. Have a great holiday weekend and I'll talk to you next week, Successful Mama! To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

When you have ADHD, you often know what you should do and why you should do it. And yet, you still don't do it. Ugh. This week on the podcast, I'm sharing a mini-series on Goal Setting with ADHD. But I'm not talking about the usual advice about consistency and breaking it down into steps. You've heard all that before. We're talking about how to make Goal Setting an ADHD-friendly process. Episodes 167, 168, and 169 discuss the key ingredients to ADHD-friendly goals. In the final segment of the series, I'm inviting you to join Successful Mama Meetups, beginning December 7th, 2022! Until now, these meetings were only available to my current clients. As of today, you can join us, too! These meetups are a twist on productivity, planning, accountability, and community. You're invited to meet other moms who get you and understand the struggle, make friends, and build your support system. We meet weekly so you'll actually make a plan for your week that makes sense for you. And we make it fun cuz how can it not be fun when you get a bunch of ADHD'ers together??? This weekend you're invited to join us for a VIP (Very Impulsive Person) special - check your inbox or listen to this week's episode for details! With a community of ADHD moms to lift you up when you're struggling, you're ready to take a baby step forward. It is possible to plan your week and achieve it, even with ADHD. Sign up at patriciasung.com/meetup To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

When you have ADHD, you often know what you should do and why you should do it. And yet, you still don't do it. Ugh. This week on the podcast, I'm sharing a mini-series on Goal Setting with ADHD. But I'm not talking about the usual advice about consistency and breaking it down into steps. You've heard all that before. We're talking about how to make Goal Setting an ADHD-friendly process. Today is Part 3, following through on your goals. When you tend to forget about the goal you set, how on earth can you stick to it? Here's the answer. If you haven't already listened, go back two episodes and listen to Parts 1 and 2 about planning when you're not good at planning, and finding your motivation. Part 1 - Episode 167: How to Make a Plan When You Stink at Planning: Goal Setting with ADHD Part 1 Part 2 - Episode 168: How to Find Your Motivation When You Just Don't Want to Do The Thing: Goal Setting with ADHD Part 2 Stay tuned for putting it all together tomorrow. It is possible to learn how to set a goal, like planning your week, and achieve it, even with ADHD. For the accompanying questions for this mini-series, download the worksheet at patriciasung.com/adhd-goal-setting

When you have ADHD, you often know what you should do and why you should do it. And yet, you still don't do it. Ugh. This week on the podcast, I'm sharing a mini-series on Goal Setting with ADHD. But I'm not talking about the usual advice about consistency and breaking it down into steps. You've heard all that before. We're talking about how to make Goal Setting an ADHD-friendly process. Today is Part 2, finding your motivation. When you just don't want to do the thing, how can you tap into that elusive motivation? If you haven't already listened, go back one episode and listen to Part 1 about planning when you're not good at planning: Episode 167: How to Make a Plan When You Stink at Planning: Goal Setting with ADHD Part 1 Stay tuned for Part 3 when we'll discuss follow-through. It is possible to learn how to set a goal, like planning your week, and achieve it, even with ADHD. For the accompanying questions for this mini-series, download the worksheet here: patriciasung.com/adhd-goal-setting To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

When you have ADHD, you often know what you should do and why you should do it. And yet, you still don't do it. Ugh. This week on the podcast, I'm sharing a mini-series on Goal Setting with ADHD. But I'm not talking about the usual advice about consistency and breaking it down into steps. You've heard all that before. We're talking about how to make Goal Setting an ADHD-friendly process. Today is Part 1, planning when you stink at planning. I'm sharing 3 critical ingredients to making an ADHD-friendly plan, so you're not beating your head against the wall using the advice that doesn't make sense. Stay tuned for Part 2 tomorrow when we'll discuss finding your motivation. It is possible to learn how to set a goal, like planning your week, and achieve it, even with ADHD. For the accompanying questions for this mini-series, download the worksheet at patriciasung.com/adhd-goal-setting To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

We've officially entered the marathon of the holiday season! How can we prepare for the holidays so that our sanity is still intact come January? Maybe you want to start some holiday traditions instead of zipping through in a blur by the skin of your teeth? Maybe you want to enjoy the season instead of drowning in overwhelm after 17 special events, 16 extra desserts, 15 late bedtimes and a neurodivergent kid in a pear tree? Two ADHD moms in our community asked and I'm answering: Here are my 3 steps to preparing for the holidays so that it's a magical time for not just your kids, but you, too. For an actionable plan to design a holiday season you're excited to enjoy, watch this masterclass at no-charge on how to plan your less stress holidays: patriciasung.com/less-holiday-stress To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

When a thought pops in your head, do you feel like you need to do something with it right away or else you'll forget? That whack-a-mole thinking is a stressful way to live. Not everything we think of is both urgent and important. Actually, most things are not important and very few are urgent. But how do we determine what really matters? Prioritizing is really difficult when you have ADHD! Meet Tracy Stanger, an anti-hustle business coach for moms. Even if you don't have a business, you'll want to hit play for these gems on prioritizing and learning to say no. Motherhood is a whole lot like running a business, as you are the one juggling all the things, filling in all the paperwork, managing the people, spending the money, and executing the tasks. Tracy believes we deserve work that lights us up and makes an impact on the world, and that we do have plenty of time for that work, even with motherhood trying to take it all up. The solution is to do Less But Better (instead of trying to #doitall). She helps her clients and students find YOUR most impactful tasks and make it easier to get those things done. Grab Tracy's free guide to How to Find 1-2 Hours in Your Day, which starts the process of Sort, Purge, + Organizing by helping you start to figure out what you WANT to do and get rid of the stuff you don't HAVE to do, off your to-do list. https://www.tracystanger.com/find-hours Find Tracy here: Website: tracystanger.com Instagram: @tracy.stanger Join us in doing Less But Better! Grab your free ADHD Strategy Guide: My Secret to Overcoming Time Blindness, to help you bring the not-now into the now and live your life the way you want to - with less stress and more joy. To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

Maybe you're not as terrible as you think. Do you often explain away your achievements? You got that new job by sheer luck… Not sure how you won that award…Must have been a fluke! See how everyone else is brilliant and accomplishes their dreams… and you're just sucking at regular life? STOP. Give yourself some credit, mama! What if Imposter Syndrome is the thing that steals your joy over and over again? Imposter Syndrome is way too common in the ADHD community, especially in women with ADHD. I'm here to put an abrupt end to it. Now. Today we discuss what Imposter Syndrome looks like, how it relates to ADHD, and what you can do when you feel like a fake or fraud (cuz you aren't.) You're working really hard and it's time to celebrate. Grab your Free ADHD Support Guide: ADHD in Women: A Checklist of Common Symptoms To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

How many times a day do you get stuck spinning in circles because you have no idea what to do next? You know you have a lot to do, but you're not sure what to do next. So your anxiety goes up, making it harder to figure out. Maybe you panic about how much you need to do (and nothing gets done during a panic attack.) Maybe you disassociate to escape the overwhelm (and nothing gets done when you freeze.) Then you beat yourself up for not getting anything done (and nothing gets done while you shame yourself.) It just gets worse and worse. Getting stuck in ADHD paralysis is a very real part of everyday life for people with ADHD. It sucks. But we don't have to stay there. Here are seven practical steps to get you out of the panic zone and move forward again. This episode is a snippet from what Patricia shared at The Power of The Pause ADHD Moms Retreat in October 2022. Join the waitlist for the 2023 Retreat here and be the first to know the details. To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

You wake up in the morning and think, "Dang it! I wasn't gonna drink last night." Now you feel like crap and don't want to get out of bed. A lot of us live in the middle ground: you wouldn't consider yourself an alcoholic, but you also aren't exactly happy with your relationship with alcohol. It's an awkward place to be. …Maybe you're making up rules for yourself like you'll only drink on weekends, on special occasions, or with friends. …Maybe you say you'll have just one glass of wine, but it turns into two or the whole bottle. …Maybe you're a Groundhog Day drinker… Every morning you make a pact with yourself and you inevitably break it. Again and again. Let's pause the spiral of shame and have an open conversation about how alcohol is a popular and culturally acceptable method to tone down the chaos in your mind so you can chill out in the evenings - particularly useful when you have ADHD and loud children. Let me be clear: I'm not here to tell you never to drink again. I want you to have the relationship YOU want with alcohol, no matter what it looks like. Today's guest is Carolyn Robistow, LPC, and host of Brain Unblocked: The Brainspotting Podcast. Carolyn helps high-achieving, health-minded perfectionists squelch brain blocks and unhelpful habits. She is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs get out of their heads, stop drinking, and start living optimized AF. Carolyn side hustles at her private practice, The Joy Effect, an in-person and virtual counseling practice in The Woodlands, TX, where she specializes in Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). You don't have to painfully shame yourself into a new way of doing things. Let's dig into the tough conversations, Successful Mama! Learn more and connect with Carolyn: Website: www.carolynrobistow.net Practice Website: https://joyeffectcounseling.com Instagram: @carolynrobistow Facebook: Carolyn Robistow To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

As we enter ADHD Awareness Month, our theme is "Do Less to Lower Your Stress." You have an overflowing plate as a mom with ADHD. How do you take things off your plate? *panic ensues* Good question! I'm giving you permission to scrap some stuff and make your life easier today. Tell me what you did to lighten your load, Successful Mama! Free resources & sign up for courses: motherhoodinadhd.com

What do you do when your ADHD child is always making you late? How do you deal with an ADHD kid who takes a hundred years to get ready in the morning or at bedtime (or all the time!)? Jaymi asks this question about what to do when her ADHD daughter is not moving in our free Facebook community. Not only is it stressful and frustrating, it creates a domino effect of problems for the rest of the family. And full disclosure, I was that kid! My mom called me the poky little puppy. Today I'm sharing 4 ways to lower your stress and teach your ADHD child the skills they need to get moving. For more support in creating ADHD-friendly morning routines that lower your stress and get you moving out the door faster, grab The Simple Morning Routine for ADHD Moms with Smart Speaker Support. To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

I recently got rejected from something that mattered to me. And it stunk. RSD (rejection sensitivity dysphoria) and trauma response all rolled into one giant ball of suck. One of the hardest parts of parenting is talking to our kids about hard things, like rejection, sadness, and disappointment especially when we don't feel like we are good at those skills ourselves. When disappointment strikes, how do we work through those feelings? And how do we teach our kids to do the same? Here's how I worked through the sadness recently and explained the tough stuff to my kids. It's time to take care of a very important person in the family: Mom. We'll relax, rest, have fun, and build friendships with mamas who think like us. Plus learn how to take care of our impressive yet ever-moving brains. Join us in Houston, October 7-9, 2022 for the very first ADHD Moms retreat! Reserve your ticket here: patriciasung.com/adhd-mom-retreat Links to resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 122: Tantrum or ADHD Meltdown? How to deal with our Children's BIG Emotions with Dr. Laura Froyen To read the transcript and view the show notes visit the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

We went to the Johnson Space Center during the last week of summer and got to sit in Mission Control for the Apollo 13 mission. At Mission Control, they monitor everything from the fuel level, oxygen level, the trajectory, and even the poo. Guess who is Mission Control for your entire family? Yup, you. No wonder you're exhausted before you even get out of bed! Two things that exhaust me a lot are timekeeping and emotional regulation. Let's talk about how you can take care of yourself as a mom with ADHD during these impossible missions. For more resources and to read the transcript and view the show notes visit Motherhood in ADHD blog. Links to resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 76: Planning for the New Year with ADHD: One Month at a Time and Overcome Time Blindness Episode 122: Tantrum or ADHD Meltdown? How to Deal with our Children's BIG Emotions with Dr. Laura Froyen To read the transcript and view the show notes visit Motherhood in ADHD blog.

"Is this an ADHD thing?" This question comes up a lot! It's hard to say because there is a wide spectrum on how ADHD symptoms present in your day to day activities. At the same time, there is so much value in knowing you aren't the only one struggling with something. In today's episode, I'm sharing the themes that I see in the symptoms of ADHD in women that I work with so that you can feel comfortable in knowing how ADHD shows up in women in real life. Included in this episode is a checklist of ADHD symptoms that you can fill out and take with you to your doctor appointment, so you can feel confident and prepared to ask about an ADHD diagnosis. For more resources and to read the transcript and view the show notes visit Motherhood in ADHD blog.

When impulsive behavior bites you in the butt again, it's discouraging! I'm sharing how I slow down impulsive leaps that kick my butt. In a brand new format, a listener (one of you, mama!) shares her question and I answer! Today Irina asks how to stop impulsive spending. It's not as easy as "well, just don't buy that."🙄 These impulsivity tips aren't just for money! Even if you are a savings queen, these strategies will help you anytime you feel like your ADHD is sabotaging your well-laid plans. When you want a chance to slow down and take care of yourself, join us at the ADHD Moms Retreat in Houston, October 7-9. Reserve your ticket here. We're diving deep into The Power of the Pause during our Saturday discussion, along with having a great weekend full of rest, relaxation, food, friendship & fun. Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

It was our worst morning last school year. I screwed up big time, and left school drop off feeling demoralized and ashamed. This is not how I want mornings to go with my kids. Do you feel that way in the mornings, too? When our ADHD causes consequences for our kids, the guilt and shame kick into high gear. Thankfully, most mornings are not like this for our family. Our mornings are usually smooth and happy, and I have time for a good conversation with my oldest before he leaves for school. How can you feel refreshed, relaxed, calm, motivated during stressful mornings, too? Today I'm sharing how our ADHD friendly morning routine keeps us on time and motivated to tackle the day. Here's my secret to a simple ADHD morning routine and how I use our smart home speaker to keep us on time for school. You can have this level of peace in the mornings, too, mama!

When was the last time you said something you wish you hadn't? Your impulsive tendencies affect you in more ways than simply putting your foot in your mouth…again. Even when it may seem impossible, you can build in the practice of slowing down. Why does this matter for busy ADHD brains? Let's discuss why you crave peace in your turbo-speed brain and how it helps both you and your family when you sloooooooow down. When your brain goes non-stop, how do you create calm in chaos? We'll dive deep into this discussion at our ADHD Moms retreat in October. You deserve a weekend to rest, focus on you, and learn how you best slow down to take care of yourself (and not snap at your kids every day.) Join us here: https://www.patriciasung.com/adhd-mom-retreat

What do women with ADHD need right now? Well, a lot of things, and community is high on the list. This episode amplifies and celebrates the trailblazing voices and experiences of women and female BIPOC individuals within our ADHD family. In July, ADDA hosted the International Global Gathering conference to spark conversations on how to thrive with ADHD. If you're not familiar with the non-profit ADDA, check out their membership - they have had solid resources, events, and support groups for adults with ADHD for over 30 years. One of the events I was honored to moderate during the virtual conference was the Women's Town Hall. The ladies had a lot to say, so I broke it into 2 episodes: The first part of the event features ADHD Women Trailblazers with guests Laurie Dupar, Liz Lewis, Terry Matlen, and Linda Roggli, hosted by ADDA Board Member, Michelle Price. The second part of the event features ADHD Women Trailblazers in the BIPOC community, led by Inger Shaye Colzie, with guests Sudhita Kasturi, Victoria Novaro, and Stacey Machelle. It's time for us to band together in conversation to change the paradigm of ADHD in women. Want to join me in person to talk about your ADHD? Our ADHD Mom Retreat is October 7-9 and you're invited. Reserve your ticket here.

What do women with ADHD need right now? Well, a lot of things, and community is high on the list. This episode amplifies and celebrates the trailblazing voices and experiences of women and female BIPOC individuals within our ADHD family. In July, ADDA hosted the International Global Gathering conference to spark conversations on how to thrive with ADHD. If you're not familiar with the non-profit ADDA, check out their membership - they have had solid resources, events, and support groups for adults with ADHD for over 30 years. One of the events I was honored to moderate during the virtual conference was the Women's Town Hall. The ladies had a lot to say, so I broke it into 2 episodes: The first part of the event features ADHD Women Trailblazers with guests Laurie Dupar, Liz Lewis, Terry Matlen, and Linda Roggli, hosted by ADDA Board Member, Michelle Price. The second part of the event features ADHD Women Trailblazers in the BIPOC community, led by Inger Shaye Colzie, with guests Sudhita Kasturi, Victoria Novaro, and Stacey Machelle. It's time for us to band together in conversation to change the paradigm of ADHD in women. Want to join me in person to talk about your ADHD? Our ADHD Mom Retreat is October 7-9 and you're invited. Reserve your ticket here.

Today I'm explaining what I do when I walk in the door after a long day. Before the chaos really takes off, I take a few minutes to sort the clutter of backpacks, diaper bags, lunch boxes, and work bags and prepare for the next day. This gives me less to do before bed and keeps the to-do list short in the mornings. Starting this chain of events sets yourself up for a handful of habits that will make your life easier. Less to do before bed when you have absolutely no energy, and less to do in the morning when you're already running late, amirite? **Note: This episode originally aired in April of 2019. As I take a break for the summer and quality time with my family, I'm sharing episodes that will help you get ready for the summer, support you with some integral support skills for ADHD, and then get ready for the new school year. To hang out with me over the summer, you can: 1) hop on over to our free Facebook community -AND/OR- 2) join me on Wednesdays during our weekly meetings by signing up for my course, Daily Planning for ADHD Moms, or my program, Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms. I'm cooking up some good stuff behind the scenes. Plus, I'll see you in the fall with brand new episodes! Talk to you then, Successful Mama! Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD Blog.

Transitions are rough for ADHD. Back to School season brings a mountain of new details to absorb, way too many forms to keep track of, and deadlines swarming like flies. So I created a Back To School preparedness list: let's turn the craziness into calm in August and September. When we have thought about how we can prepare for what we know is coming, it makes the doing a lot less overwhelming. That means that we can use our finite amount of energy that's left over to tackle the unpredictable that inevitably comes with a new school year. And if the school year has already started for you, listen in; these tips can be used to make any part of the school year feel in control. For more on school support for kids and moms with ADHD, listen to: - Episode 26: Build a supportive Partnership with your child's teacher Episode 27: How to tell your Child's Teacher about their ADHD Episode 34: How to use Parent-Teacher Conferences to Help your ADHD Child at School This episode originally aired in August of 2019. As I take a break for the summer and quality time with my family, I'm sharing episodes that will help you get ready for the summer, support you with some integral support skills for ADHD, and then get ready for the new school year. To hang out with me over the summer, you can: 1) hop on over to our free Facebook community to meet your people and feel like you're not a weirdo -AND/OR- 2) join me on Wednesdays during our weekly meetings by signing up for my course, Daily Planning for ADHD Moms, where you'll get your day organized and actually show up for stuff mostly on time, or my program, Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms where you'll create the best daily routine for you and your family that your ADHD brain will actually be okay with following. Get stuff done while you love your life & your brain. I'm cooking up some good stuff behind the scenes. Plus I'll see you in the fall with brand new episodes! Talk to you then, Successful Mama! Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

Less late is the goal. Sure, we wish we were on time. Let's take some baby steps and be a little less late. Today we'll discuss why we are frequently running late, discuss executive functions involved in the project of leaving your house with kids in tow, find our motivation to make changes, and walk through a few skills, like counting up the minutes you truly need to walk out that door calmly with everything you need. If you're as time blind as I am, you'll want to ask for help in completing this homework since chances are you were overly optimistic (a.k.a. mindbogglingly incorrect) in your estimations. Being more timely is a learned skill, so we are not doomed for all eternity, mama! **Note: This episode originally aired in May of 2019. As I take a break for the summer and quality time with my family, I'm sharing episodes that will help you get ready for the summer, support you with some integral support skills for ADHD, and then get ready for the new school year. To hang out with me over the summer, you can: 1) hop on over to our free Facebook community -AND/OR- 2) join me on Wednesdays during our weekly meetings by signing up for my course, Daily Planning for ADHD Moms, or my program, Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms. I'm cooking up some good stuff behind the scenes. Plus, I'll see you in the fall with brand new episodes! Talk to you then, Successful Mama! Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

Behind The Scenes Sneak Peek? Yes, please! My summer devolved into chaos, and I'm sharing why. Things have not - at all - gone as planned, yet I'm leaning into it. The difference between rest and recovery is confusing, and our ADHD brains like neither. We like to plan lots of stuff to do in our rest time. And then we're surprised when it's not restful! Yet rest is a must-have for our busy brains. Figuring out how to serve you better is always on my mind, so here's what I've been working on behind the scenes. In this raw, unedited episode, I'm sharing what's happening Behind the Scenes this summer, including the very first Successful As A Mother Retreat. When you want to show up on time and prioritize your To Do List in a way that makes sense to your ADHD brain, join Daily Planning for ADHD Moms. Payment plan available until July 31st.

Behind The Scenes Sneak Peek? Yes, please! What horrible work experience have you had? Were you fired? "Let go"? Embarrassed for all of time? In this raw, unedited episode, I'm sharing what's going on Behind The Scenes this summer, and today it's the story of when I was "let go" from work. Sharing our stories is what allows us to connect, so I'm going first. How can we grow our ADHD Mom Community? By hanging out together, in person! You're invited on an all-inclusive, curated weekend getaway with Patricia is the first of its kind: for ADHD Moms (and moms that think they have ADHD.) You'll enjoy 4-star accommodations, unparalleled experiences, and gourmet meals, all while making friends with moms who understand how you think and love you just the way you are. Best of all, you don't need to plan or organize anything once you arrive at the hotel. I'm taking care of YOU! Every meal, every activity… you simply arrive at the hotel, and everything is taken care of for you from there. You'll arrive home refreshed and rested. Book your ticket here: https://www.patriciasung.com/adhd-mom-retreat by August 8th for early bird pricing. This is a small group, so if you're coming, don't wait long to reserve your spot. Pack your bags, and I'll see you in October!

Behind The Scenes Sneak Peek? Yes, please! You are meant for more, mama. You are meant to be successful with ADHD because that is how you were made. So how do we get you unstuck, moving forward, and living the life you are meant to live? I want to help you find it. In this raw, unedited episode, I'm sharing what's happening Behind the Scenes this summer. I totally hopped on a soapbox here, and I'm here. For. It. No more hiding - confidently claim what you're awesome at and shine on, mama! If one of these 2 spots is meant for you, sign up here: https://www.patriciasung.com/adhdcoach

Behind The Scenes Sneak Peek? Yes, please! In this raw, unedited episode, I'm sharing what's going on Behind The Scenes this summer as I take a break from creating new episodes to... make a new episode today! Over the last 6 months, I've been volunteering with ADDA, a non-profit that serves Adults with ADHD. This weekend is the ADDA Global Gathering - an innovative, virtual, around-the-clock international conference for Adults with ADHD. You're invited to visit the new virtual reality "ADDA-verse" (free for the 36 hours of the conference) to learn about ADHD in an ADHD-friendly way, and mingle with other ADHD Adults. Join me for an informal conversation on Friday night about "Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: ADHD & Self-Doubt," and as I co-host the Women's Town Hall on Saturday night. Let's hang out! Register at no charge here: https://add.org/addaverse-open-house/ You can attend the main sessions as well (ticket required: https://homecoming.add.org/ ) on ADHD@Work, ADHD & Me, and You, Me & ADHD. Come find me in the ADDAverse July 22 and 23 and say hi! (I'll be dressed in head-to-toe yellow as one of the volunteers.)

Don't you wish there was a five-question Cosmo quiz that would tell you a definitive yes/no answer to the question "Do you have ADHD?" Well, our brains are a little more complex than that. I'm no doctor, but here's the first time I addressed this question on the podcast. Let me point you in the right direction and help you figure out the right doctor that can help you find out if you have ADHD. Getting the right diagnosis from a qualified and experienced professional is the first step in your journey to healing and a joy-filled life. **Note: This episode originally aired in June of 2019. As I take a break for the summer and quality time with my family, I'm sharing episodes that will help you get ready for the summer, support you with some integral support skills for ADHD, and then get ready for the new school year. To hang out with me over the summer, you can: 1) hop on over to our free Facebook community to meet your people and feel like you're not a weirdo -AND/OR- 2) join me on Wednesdays during our weekly meetings by signing up for my course, Daily Planning for ADHD Moms, where you'll get your day organized and actually show up for stuff mostly on time, or my program, Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms where you'll create the best daily routine for you and your family that your ADHD brain will actually be okay with following. Get stuff done while you love your life & your brain. I'm cooking up some good stuff behind the scenes. Plus, I'll see you in the fall with brand new episodes! Talk to you then, Successful Mama! Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

It's June, and your kids are either home now or about to be home for the whole summer. That is three unstructured months of chaos ahead of you... cue panic! Wait! It doesn't have to be! You asked; I answered: What does Patricia's summer schedule look like? With a few minutes of planning, you'll create a flexible structure to fit any family during the summer break and all year long. No need to panic nor roll your eyes at me! Having a schedule doesn't mean you're stuck with a minute-by-minute inflexible itinerary sucking the fun out of every hour. Your summer vacation can still be full of fun and freedom and impromptu activities without you losing your sanity on the daily. Having a running list of activities to keep everyone entertained keeps my stress down and decision fatigue low. There's no scrambling around in the morning trying to figure out, "Mom, what are we going to do today?" Or the wasted mornings where I can't figure out what the answer is, and all of a sudden its lunchtime, and I still don't know what we're going to do today, and it's half over! Today we're walking through what the schedule setup looks like, as well as how I have implemented that framework for our family with specifics on time and activities. Our family has used this basic schedule for multiple years, and we adapt it as our kids grow from babies to toddlers to preschoolers to elementary school to adults (that's for me, the mom.) **Note: This episode originally aired in June of 2021. As I take a break for the summer and quality time with my family, I'm sharing episodes that will help you get ready for the summer, support you with some integral support skills for ADHD, and then get ready for the new school year. To hang out with me over the summer, you can: 1) hop on over to our free Facebook community to meet your people and feel like you're not a weirdo -AND/OR- 2) join me on Wednesdays during our weekly meetings by signing up for my course, Daily Planning for ADHD Moms, where you'll get your day organized and actually show up for stuff mostly on time, or my program, Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms where you'll create the best daily routine for you and your family that your ADHD brain will actually be okay with following. Get stuff done while you love your life & your brain. I'm cooking up some other stuff behind the scenes. Plus, I'll see you in the fall with brand new episodes! Talk to you then, Successful Mama! Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

How do you feel when you think about taking ADHD medication? Nervous? Hopeful? Overwhelmed? The process of obtaining and finding the right medication can feel like A LOT. First, you have to approach the subject with your doctor (who may or may not be well-informed about ADHD) -- and then there is finding the right type and dosing of medication, dealing with potential side effects, and the whole process of trial and error. It never goes perfectly. But it can go more smoothly -- when you take a few steps to plan and prepare for it. On this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, I share all my best tips and strategies for starting ADHD medication that I learned the hard way -- from tackling the first conversation with your doc, to riding out your first few months. You'll learn: - Tips for remembering to take your medication daily (No more, "Ugh, did I actually take that today?" moments) - How to take your medication for maximum effectiveness - How to work with your doctor to start and stop medication safely - Tips for finding the right dosing - What to do if you can't afford your ADHD medication - Tips for approaching the topic of ADHD medication with your doctor (No, you're not a "drug seeker"!) - And so much more! Your first go-round with ADHD medication doesn't have to be a disaster. You deserve to feel confident, informed, and fear-free while you find a treatment plan that works for you. This material is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a trained medical professional to find the treatment plan that best fits your personal situation. What if you could look back at your day, and know you did everything on your to-do list? What if you could feel productive and accomplished, knowing you showed up for the people and things you love most? It's all possible with the Daily Planning for Moms with ADHD course, where I teach you how to keep a calendar and organize your to-do lists in a way that makes sense for your ADHD brain. Join today at: bit.ly/adhdplan Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

Stimulant medication for ADHD is a hot-button topic. Everyone has something to say -- your friends, your coworkers, your uncle's cousin's brother's barber, and of course, the internet. They'll tell you about the person they knew who "went crazy" on stimulants. They'll tell you how ADHD medication will change your personality or turn you into a zoned-out zombie. They'll tell you, you probably don't need medication unless you're struggling in school or at work. SO when that small voice inside of you asks, "Could medication help?" It's hard to hear it through all that noise. And while most people are well-meaning, most of the negative stories you hear about stimulant medications for ADHD are utter nonsense. It's "Medication May" (and June) on the Motherhood in ADHD podcast, and we're continuing our series with an episode dedicated to busting myths about stimulant medication. And boy, are there a lot of 'em! But we're just choosing 10 for this episode, including: - Will ADHD medication make me a zombie? - Is medication just for kids? - Can ADHD medication become addicting? - Do I need periodic breaks from my medication? - Is coffee a safer alternative to stimulant medication? - And 5 more pervasive myths you won't want to miss! This isn't medical advice. The point of this series is to take away the fear and shame of taking ADHD medication and to arm you with quality information so you can make the right decision for yourself and your life. And hopefully, you can serve as an educator to the people in your circle with mistaken beliefs about ADHD medication. And we can end the stigma together. This material is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a trained medical professional to find the treatment plan that best fits your personal situation. Would you love a more peaceful morning as an ADHD mom? How about some help to navigate ADHD time blindness, so you can finally get your kids to school on time? You can get these in your inbox TODAY by visiting patriciasung.com/resources. Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

Can I get addicted to ADHD medication? Is Adderall the same as meth? With questions like these circling within communities and around the internet, it's no wonder so many ADHDers are confused, and sometimes terrified to take ADHD medication -- or to tell their family and friends they're on it. It's "Medication May" on the Motherhood in ADHD podcast, and the goal of this episode series is to break stigma, bust myths and equip you with as much knowledge as possible about ADHD medication. So you can feel confident in making the choice that's right for you. On this episode, we continue our conversation with Board-Certified Pediatrician and ADHD specialist Dr. Carolyn Parcells. She gives us an overview of ADHD medication, answers commonly-asked questions, and busts several pervasive myths. You'll hear about: - The basics of ADHD medication -- the different types and how they work in the brain - The differences between stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medication - ADHD medication and kids -- the types of medication for different age groups, risks, and benefits - The complete low-down on ADHD medication and risk of addiction Answers to questions like: - Why is my medication less effective before and during my period? - Can I double my dose if it's not working? - Are there certain people who should avoid stimulants? - Should I take a break from my medication so I don't develop a tolerance? - And more! Thank you, Dr. Parcells for your sharing your wealth of knowledge as an ADHD specialist! This material is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a trained medical professional to find the treatment plan that best fits your personal situation. What if you could learn an easy, 3-step system for organizing your day, sorting through your to-do lists, and keeping your commitments? What if you had a group of other ADHD moms to hold you accountable week to week? It's all possible with Daily Planning for ADHD Moms. Figure out your life in a way that makes sense for both your mom-life and your ADHD brain. Join us here! Connect with Dr. Parcells, read the transcript, and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

You should be able to get your kids to school on time. You should be able to remember all your appointments. You should be able to handle life without medications. So many moms with ADHD have a habit of should-ing all over themselves. Because we're still fighting the shame, embarrassment, and stigma associated with adult ADHD diagnosis. During "Medication May" on the Motherhood in ADHD podcast, we want to encourage you to replace all your "shoulds" with "deserve." You deserve to be able to get your kids to school on time. You deserve to be able to remember your appointments. You deserve mediation so you can handle your life better. This episode features Board-Certified Pediatrician and ADHD Specialist Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells. As a doctor, and a mom with ADHD, she's very familiar with the shame, stigma, and "shoulds". In part one of this two-part conversation, you'll hear about: - The hidden strengths in ADHDers - The pros and cons of "leaning in" to your ADHD brain and doing things differently - How the ADHD community can work to fight the shame and stigma of seeking treatment or medication for ADHD - Why getting treated for your ADHD is never a "waste of resources" - How to handle the fear and potential shame of telling friends and family you have ADHD - And more! Thank you, Dr. Parcells – for sharing your stories and insights! In 11 weeks, you'll set up a smooth, low-stress plan for your mom-life by designing your daily rhythms and routines fit for your ADHD brain. Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms is starting NOW! Join us here: http://bit.ly/adhdframework Connect with Dr. Parcells, read the transcript, and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

How will ADHD medication affect my life? What will my family and friends think if I tell them? Will ADHD medication change my personality? There are so many fears, worries, and what-if's surrounding taking ADHD medication. You may have heard family or cultural messages your entire life that says medication is wrong, harmful, or shameful. With all of the stigma and negative buzz, it's no wonder so many ADHD'ers are confused and worried about taking it. There is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of about taking ADHD medication. When you really dig into the data, it paints a very different picture -- one that deserves a closer look. It's "Medication May" on the Motherhood in ADHD podcast. This episode series aims to arm you with the knowledge and confidence you need to make the right choice about taking (or not taking) ADHD medication. In this episode, Canadian Psychotherapist and fellow ADHD mama Christina Crowe discusses: - The pros and cons of taking ADHD medication, and the surprising risks of untreated ADHD - Questions to ask when you're choosing a doctor to treat your ADHD - What to consider when deciding if medication is right for you - Christina's thoughts on "big pharma" and the idea that the pharmaceutical industry is profiting off of mental illness medication (and other common fears) - Christina's personal journey with ADHD diagnosis in her late 30's and her biggest struggles with parenting her ADHD child - The difference between mindfulness and meditation (Yes, there's a difference!) - And more! Thank you, Christina, for joining us and offering your incredible knowledge and insights! Connect with Christina, read the transcript, and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog. This material is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a trained medical professional to find the treatment plan that best fits your personal situation. ----- What if you could learn an easy, 3-step system for organizing your day, sorting through your to-do lists, and keeping your commitments? What if you had a group of other ADHD moms to hold you accountable week to week? It's all possible with Daily Planning for ADHD moms. Figure out your life in a way that makes sense for both your mom-life and your ADHD brain. Join us today! bit.ly/adhdplan

How do you feel about ADHD medication? Are you taking it? Does it help you focus and thrive? Or are you medication-curious, and a little freaked out about it? That's totally okay. Are you anti-medicine? That's alright, too. Most ADHDers who are new to medication have a LOT of questions, like: - How does ADHD medicine feel? - How do you know if your ADHD medication is working? - How do you decide if medication is the right choice? On the Motherhood in ADHD podcast, we're kicking off "Medication May" (and probably a bit of June too!), by giving you the complete low-down on ADHD medication, so you can make the choice that's right for you. In this episode, you'll hear about: - Why I choose to take medicine, and my personal experience with different types of ADHD medication over the past 20 years - Why I stopped taking medication in the past, and how I managed without it - The unnecessary shame and embarrassment many ADHDers feel when seeking ADHD meds (Let's break the stigma, shall we?!) - How to tackle the fears and "what ifs" around taking medication by becoming as informed as possible - How ADHD medication isn't a "magic wand" that solves all your problems – and additional ways to support yourself - The difference between stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medication (and my experience with both) - Why it's okay to start and stop medication (and how to work with your doctor to do this safely) - Answers to the most frequent questions asked by listeners - And more! Let me be clear: This is not medical advice. I'm not here to tell you what you should or should not do. My goal in sharing my treatment journey is to share with you as much knowledge and confidence as possible, so you can decide if ADHD medicine is an option you'd like to try. Because you are the only one who can decide what is best for you. This material is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a trained medical professional to find the treatment plan that best fits your personal situation. Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog. Lower your stress and learn how to create a rhythm for your day with Time Management Mastery for Moms with ADHD. Over the next 11 weeks, you'll create a flexible framework for your day that's fluid enough for your ADHD brain to stick with, and structured enough to feel like you're in control. Join today by visiting this link: bit.ly/adhdframework Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

Parenting as a single mom is hard. Parenting as a single mom with adult ADHD is extra hard. There's homework, housework, and after-school activities to manage on your own. There's the pressure to put healthy food on the table every night when you're already exhausted. There are bills to pay on one income. And then there's your ADHD symptoms and emotional exhaustion – the guilt, shame and inadequacy that come with being divorced and never feeling like you're good enough. If you need to hear this today: You are a fantastic mom. And you're not alone. There are a bunch of single moms in our Motherhood in ADHD Community. Reach out and find your village! Since I'm not a single parent, I reached out for some help from a few friends. In this special request (from one of YOU!) episode of Motherhood in ADHD, you'll hear expert advice from 5 single moms who know the struggle and have found tools to help them thrive in parenting and in life. These single moms shared: - Self-care tips for single moms - How to let go of the perfectionism and comparison - The benefits of living simply as a single mom with ADHD - Advocating for your children with ADHD - The importance of setting boundaries as a single mom - And more! A special thank you to the incredible single moms who contributed their heartfelt wisdom to this episode: Pam McCurry, Motherhood in ADHD listener Yakini Pierce, ADHD Parenting Coach and Podcaster, ADHD Love Instagram: @adhdlove2020 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDLove2020 Nicki Maher, ADHD Mom Influencer Instagram: @nickimarieinc Facebook: Homebase with Nicki Anna Lopez, Psychiatric Physician's Assistant Instagram: @adhdinatx Natalie Nolan, ADHD Coach for Divorced Women Instagram: @ADHDDivorce Which Mama Animal are you? Take the Quiz: What's your ADHD Mama Parenting Style? Because you're #NotYourAverageMamaBear Share and tag me on Social Media! What if you could find a group of ADHD moms to connect with and ask questions, share advice, and most importantly – know you're not alone? You can! Join the Motherhood in ADHD Facebook Group today!

What does your ADHD look like? Does it look like impulsiveness, hyperactivity and the irresistible urge to fidget – the signs we constantly hear about in men and boys? Or does it look more like forgetting to put on deodorant or brush your teeth, trouble keeping track of all your kid's appointments, absent-mindedly twirling your hair, or excessive talking when you get excited? (If you've ever gotten "talks too much" on your report card as a kid, you know what I mean!) ADHD can look different in women – and just because you don't have the "classic" signs, doesn't mean you don't have ADHD. In this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, Dr. Sasha Hamdani, a board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD specialist, shares about the symptoms of ADHD in women, and SO much more, including: - Dr. Sasha's own diagnosis story, and her experience as a mom with ADHD - ADHD diagnosis in children: how to talk to your kids about their diagnosis in a non-judgmental and supportive way - When it's time to seek professional help for your ADHD symptoms - ADHD and hormones: how your cycle affects your symptoms - Self-care tips for the emotional side of ADHD - The benefits of partnering with an ADHD specialist, and how to find the right professional - How to speak to your loved ones about your ADHD, while clarifying it's an explanation and not an excuse - Answers to all YOUR burning questions that you shared in our Motherhood in ADHD private Facebook group (P.S. You should join if you haven't yet!) BIG thanks to Dr. Sasha Hamdani for sharing your wisdom and expertise with us! To hear more about ADHD from Dr. Sasha, follow her on Instagram: @thepsychdoctormd To learn more about Dr. Sasha's psychiatry practice, visit her website: drhamdanimd.com Learn how to feel more put together by organizing your to-do list in an ADHD friendly way, and keeping your commitments to yourself - all part of the Daily Planning for ADHD Moms course. Join here: bit.ly/adhdplan Which Mama Animal are you? Take the Quiz: What's your ADHD Mama Parenting Style? Because you're #NotYourAverageMamaBear Red the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog. This material is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a trained medical professional to find the treatment plan that best fits your personal situation.

How did you figure out you (possibly) have ADHD? We all have our own unique journey to an ADHD diagnosis. Maybe you have a formal diagnosis from a doctor and a prescription for ADHD medication, and it's helping you live your best life. Or maybe your ADHD is self-diagnosed. You've done the research, you check all the boxes, you know in your heart that this is why you're struggling, and you're choosing to manage it on your own. What matters most is that you feel seen, supported, and encouraged. But what if you're on the fence about getting a professional diagnosis for your ADHD? What if you're (understandably) concerned about the cost of care, or feeling overwhelmed by the process of finding the right doctor? Maybe you've had a bad experience in the past where you've felt uninformed, shamed, embarrassed, or doubted your own perspective. In this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, I'll share my thoughts on this topic. You'll hear: - Why people decide to stick with ADHD self-diagnosis (Absolutely NO judgement here!) - Why the simple validation that you have ADHD can improve your mental health and wellbeing - 5 reasons why a formal diagnosis can improve your mental health, work and school accommodations, relationships with others, and more This episode will help you take the worry out of the equation and feel supported and validated that you are making the best decision for you. In 11 weeks, you'll set up a smooth, low-stress plan for your mom life by designing your daily rhythms and routines fit for your ADHD brain. Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms is starting NOW! Join us here: bit.ly/adhdframework. Read the transcript and view the show notes on the Motherhood in ADHD blog.

What's wrong with my child? Why won't they listen? Why is everything a negotiation? Why do I have to keep yelling, making threats, and going from 0-100 in a split second? What's wrong with me? Mama–you're not the first one to ask these questions. We've all flipped our lids, cried in the bathroom, felt horribly guilty for yelling at our kids and wondered, at the end of the day, if we're just defective parents. What if there's nothing wrong with your child, even though they're a little…spicy? And what if there's nothing wrong with you? What if a few more tools in your toolbelt are enough to be the kind and compassionate parent you want to be? Meet Mary Van Geffen, parenting coach for parents with spicy children. She's helped thousands of moms practice staying calm, kind, and firm with their strong-willed children, and she's a mom with ADHD, just like us. In this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, Mary and I discuss: - Mary's journey to her ADHD diagnosis and the self-acceptance that followed - Her struggles with parenting as an ADHD mom and Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), and how tools like self-compassion help her cope with overstimulation - What it means to have a "spicy child," and why we can stop trying to figure out "what's wrong" with our kids - Self-regulation, self-compassion, and other practices that support us through parenting stress and overwhelm - Cycle syncing and parenting – how we can sync our parenting style with our menstrual cycle to plan activities around our energy levels and show up for our children as the best version of ourselves - The 1-minute meditation that helps you get out of your swirling mind and into the calmness of your body when you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed During the episode, Mary mentions Rich Roll, who had Lisa Miller, PhD on his show (episode #654). She wrote the book called The Awaken Brain. Mary also mentions during the meditation Shirzad Chamine, who researched and wrote a book around Positive Intelligence. Find it here: We Should All Be Millionaires A big thank you to Mary Van Geffen for sharing her heart-centered wisdom with us! To learn more tools for parenting spicy children, follow Mary on Instagram at: @maryvangeffen Visit her website: https://www.maryvangeffen.com/ Or join the waitlist for her live, 8-week course, Moms of Spicy Ones: http://www.maryvangeffen.com/waitlist Learn how to organize your to-do list and your commitments to yourself in the Daily Planning for ADHD Moms course. Join here: bit.ly/adhdplan Prefer reading? Click here to read the transcription of this episode.

Mama–when was the last time you spent time alone? And no–I don't mean the 2 minutes you spend in the bathroom while the dog scratches at the door and you can hear someone yelling "moooom??" from some distant corner of the house. I mean real alone time–as in, away from your family, inaccessible, OFF THE CLOCK. Has it been a while? Have you…ever had any real alone time? If you haven't, it's understandable. Maybe you just can't find the time. Or the childcare help. Maybe you feel selfish or wrong for taking time to yourself. We feel like we have to be the glue that holds families together, right? Without you, wouldn't your family just…fall apart? Maybe. But maybe that's okay. In this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, I'll share 11 lessons I learned from my first solo vacation as an ADHD mom, and more. We'll talk about: -Overwhelmed moms who formed "escape plans"--from becoming a nun to checking into rehab (Yeah, motherhood is hard.) -How my vacation almost didn't happen because my ADHD brain mixed up the dates and miscommunicated them to my spouse. -How I felt after getting 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep (YES, this really happened) -How stepping back can increase our kids' resilience -Relationships and ADHD–why it's so important for us to voice what's in our head so our partners can understand how our extraordinary brains work -The time-driven nature of motherhood, and how getting "off the clock" can relieve anxiety for moms with ADHD -The difference between self-care and after-care, and why it matters -Chronic illness and motherhood–how you're more capable than you think when you've slid into a dark spot As an ADHD mama, you're already a superstar. Listen to this episode to find out how self-care can help you shine even brighter. Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms is starting NOW! In 11 weeks, you'll design your daily rhythms and routines for a smooth and successful day. Join us here: bit.ly/adhdframework Prefer reading? Click here to read the transcription of this episode.

Have you ever wondered if you need therapy for your ADHD? That question can feel overwhelming for ADHD mamas. You're thinking: Do I really need therapy if I'm not in crisis? What if my therapist doesn't understand my ADHD brain? What if they tell me I'm just a hot mess and there's no hope for improvement? What if I don't like my therapist and I'm stuck in weekly sessions I don't know how to get out of? I hear you mama, and I've been there. But what if I told you I knew someone who could answer all these questions–a licensed psychologist, consultant, speaker, educator, and most importantly–a mom with ADHD? Meet Dr. Han Ren–she's our guest for this episode of Motherhood in ADHD, and she addresses all these questions and SO much more. We talk about: -Dr. Ren's own journey to ADHD diagnosis, and how she felt like she was "tricking" her psychiatrist into prescribing stimulants (Until she realized she ACTUALLY needed them!) -The cultural impact of ADHD, breaking generational cycles, and how Dr. Ren worked to decondition her belief that it was a character flaw -Navigating friendship with ADHD–and how to handle it when you feel like you've been "too much" in your relationship -Normalizing indecision and changing your mind–why it's totally okay to hobby hop -When to go to therapy–and how it can help ADHD moms thrive, even when we're not in crisis -How to choose the right therapist for you, AND how to fire your therapist if they're not a good fit–no guilt, shame or ghosting necessary! -Parenting well with ADHD–Dr. Ren shares how it's made her a more compassionate mom -How Dr. Han sucks at cleaning her house (YES, she really is just like us!) Mama, you deserve to feel your best, and if that means finding a therapist to walk through life with you, then I support you 100%, and this episode is for you! I want to thank Dr. Han Ren for gifting us with her incredible knowledge, inspiring activism, and empathy as an ADHD mom. https://www.amazon.com/What-My-Bones-Know-Healing/dp/0593238109/ref=nodl_ To watch Dr. Ren normalize therapy and lift up communities of color through relatable and educational content, follow her on Tik Tok: @drhanren and Instagram: @dr.han.ren To learn more about Dr. Ren's therapy practice, visit her website. Get your life together next month when Time Management Mastery for ADHD Moms opens for enrollment. In 11 weeks, you'll design your daily rhythms and routines for a smooth and successful day. Join the waitlist here: bit.ly/tmmwaitlist Prefer reading? Click here to read the transcription of this episode.

True or false: we all have the same 24 hours in a day…? If you said FALSE, you're 100% right, mama. Sure, we have 24 physical hours. But depending on our abilities, circumstances and responsibilities… Those hours look VERY different. To a carefree, neurotypical teenaged boy, an hour might feel like eternity. He can hang out with friends, do some homework, watch a show, eat some food. Leisurely. To a work-at-home mama of 3 with ADHD, dinner on the stove, laundry to fold, an appointment she's late for, keys she can't find (again) and a puppy that needs house training… Not so much. A 500lb barbell is the same weight to an Olympic weightlifting champion as it is to me! But he and I have a unique set of skills and abilities that mean he can lift it, while I just look at it and laugh. Time is the same way, friend. It's measured the same. But we are not all equipped equally in how we spend it. You're putting in double the effort to get half the output than other people can. I see you. This week's episode of Motherhood in ADHD is your permission slip to STOP beating yourself up for being 'bad with time' and not 'hustling' your way to success. Give it a listen and discover why you may have a different 24 hours than 'other moms.' And as always, head over to patriciasung.com/resources for loads of free tools to help you feel more in control of your day and life. Prefer reading? Click here to read the transcription of this episode.

Do you struggle with reading or math? Do you lose your place easily when working? Is reading sheet music ridiculously hard? Well, it might not be your eyes OR your ADHD, mama. It might be something called Irlen Syndrome. Not only does it tend to go along with ADHD (& autism!), it can lead to misdiagnosis. Irlen Syndrome, also called Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, is a perceptual processing disorder, not a vision problem. For those of us who have it, it can lead to some funky vision impairment and: - Extreme light sensitivity - Wanting/needing to read in dim light - Seeing waves or "rivers" in between the lines of text as we read - Poor depth perception - Bad coordination issues & clumsiness - Low self-esteem or motivation …and more. However, even if you get this diagnosis, there's good news: There are things that can help! Tune in to this week's episode of Motherhood in ADHD to find out more about this condition and learn what you can do to counter these tough symptoms, including what symptoms to look for in children. Learn more about Irlen Syndrome. Free download of color filter for your computer screen. And if you're tired of labeling yourself as a disorganized hot mess mama and could use some real life organization skills designed specifically for ADHD mamas… Click here to learn more about Daily Planning for ADHD Moms - where you'll learn how your unique brain can best use a Planner and a To Do List to stay organized and on track. Prefer reading? Click here to read the transcription of this episode.