58. Struggling to Understand ADHD? Here’s What Your Partner Needs You to Know [Solo Episode] with Jane McFadden

ADHD Mums

For many ADHD mums, explaining ADHD to loved ones can feel like speaking another language. Partners and family members might try their best but don’t always grasp the full picture - or might even feel overwhelmed or unsure how to help.

This episode is for both ADHD mums and their loved ones - those who want to help but feel unsure about ADHD, feeling overwhelmed by what it means, or just want to provide better support.

In This Episode:

• Understanding ADHD: Why ADHD isn’t about effort or being disorganised - it’s about how the brain processes and manages information.
• Validation Matters: The incredible impact of simply acknowledging someone’s experience.
• Tools for Teamwork: Shared strategies like visual schedules, body doubling, and clear communication to reduce tension.
• Moving Past Misunderstandings: Practical ways to address challenges like unfinished tasks and miscommunication without blame.

Note: Every relationship and experience with ADHD is unique, and this episode is part of an ongoing conversation. The tools and insights shared here are designed to foster understanding and connection but are not a one-size-fits-all solution.

If you’re an ADHD mum, listen to this episode and share it with someone who needs to understand your journey. If you’re a partner or family member, hit play with curiosity - it's a chance to hear how small changes can make life easier for everyone.

Resources Mentioned:

• ADHD Planner & Values Workbook: Tools to help create routines that work for neurodivergent families.
• Episode - PMS and ADHD. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Episode - Feeling like PMS is taking over your life? It might be PMDD. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Episode - From Skeptic to Advocate: Medication for Children. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Join the ADHD Mums Facebook Community for support and connection.
• Barkley 2018: Executive Functions: What They Are, How They Work, and Why They Evolved linked HERE.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

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COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key topics covered: This episode explores key topics like understanding ADHD in relationships, how to explain ADHD to your partner, and tools for managing ADHD as a couple. We cover communication strategies for ADHD families, the impact of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), and how masking affects ADHD mums. You’ll also learn about shared strategies, practical tools for ADHD couples, and the signs your partner might have ADHD too. Whether it’s emotional regulation, reducing misunderstandings, or building connection, this episode offers actionable insights to support ADHD mums and their loved ones. Perfect for anyone searching for ADHD-friendly tools for families or ways to strengthen their relationship while navigating ADHD.

Mentioned in this episode:

ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook: A System for ADHD Mums

Simplify your chaotic ADHD mum life with the ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook. Designed to help you brain dump the chaos, prioritise what truly matters, and stop the guilt spiral, these tools are 100% fluff-free and built for real-life use. Start anytime, pick up and put down as needed, and create a system that works with your ADHD, not against it.

ADHD Planner