ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with Laura Mears-Reynolds, founder and CEO of ADHDAF+ Charity and host of the ADHD AF podcast, for a refreshingly honest conversation about ADHD in women, perimenopause, late diagnosis, hyperfocus, self-acceptance and the power of finding people who truly understand you.
**CONTENT WARNING**
This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Please read below for more detailed chapter descriptions and to make an informed decision on whether this episode is for you.
Specific subjects discussed include: Mental Health, Depression, Neurodivergence, Perimenopause & Hormonal Health, Menstrual Bleeding, Medical Dismissal. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links...
UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/
Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help
Laura shares how understanding her own neurodivergence changed the way she sees herself, including the realisation that being “too much” can look very different when you finally understand your brain. We talk about RSD, urgency, difficulty switching off, hyperfocus and that very ADHD feeling that everything has to happen right now - even when nobody else is actually demanding it.
A major part of the conversation explores ADHD and perimenopause, and how hormonal changes can make symptoms feel more intense or break down coping strategies that may have been working quietly in the background for years. Laura shares her own experience of sleep disruption, brain fog, changing periods and eventually having to push to be taken seriously when something clearly wasn’t right.
We also talk about the pressure neurodivergent people can feel to keep functioning at the same level every day, even when energy, hormones, focus and capacity are constantly shifting - and why accepting that your best can look different from one day to the next can be a huge part of self-understanding.
TOPICS DISCUSSED
• ADHD in women
• Late diagnosis and self-understanding
• Perimenopause and ADHD symptoms
• Hormones and neurodivergence
• Hyperfocus and difficulty switching off
• The pressure to act on everything immediately
• RSD and feeling like you’re always about to get in trouble
• Sleep and ADHD
• Brain fog and changing cognitive capacity
• Learning to work with your brain instead of against it
• Why your best can look different every day
• The importance of peer support and community
• Self-acceptance after diagnosis
• Advocating for yourself
• Making ADHD support more accessible
FIND LAURA MEARS-REYNOLDS
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraisadhdaf
ADHDAF+ Charity: https://www.adhdafplus.org.uk
ADHDAF Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/adhdafpodcast
FIND TIGZ RICE
Website: https://www.tigzrice.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice
Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice
PODCAST DISCLAIMER
Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.
