EP. 194: ADHD & Trauma

ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka

ADHD and trauma overlap quite a bit in how they affect the brain, so much so that clinicians often misdiagnose one for the other. So how do clinicians distinguish between ADHD and trauma when both impact the same areas of the brain and can cause similar symptoms? And moreover, what happens when ADHD and trauma co-occur, which they so often do, due to the inherent trauma of growing up with a differently wired brain? This solo episode I’m diving into the research on how trauma impacts the brain and nervous system, how untreated ADHD can lead to trauma, and where to start with treatment when you have that oh-so-wonderful combo of ADHD and trauma. Just like with ADHD, trauma is never your fault and your symptoms are not moral failings or character flaws to be hidden away. Shame is a component of both trauma and ADHD, and the more we shed light on it, the easier it is to eradicate it. In other words, what is sharable is bearable. Resources

Are you ready to stop spinning your wheels and start leveraging your ADHD strengths? If so, join me for "Your ADHD Brain is A-OK," a six-week journey beginning next week. We’ll explore your unique brilliance—not just managing ADHD, but celebrating it. Discover and fall in love with the strengths and quirks of your ADHD brain. Sign up at adhdforsmartwomen.com/go.

Join Tracy in "Your ADHD Brain is A-OK," a six-week program designed for women with ADHD. Enjoy live coaching, a supportive community, and learn to harness your unique strengths. Discover how to focus on what truly matters to you and transform the way you see yourself and your abilities. Start your journey to self-love and empowerment—enrollment is now open with a special discount available!

That’s a wrap! If you found today’s episode inspiring, join me for "Your ADHD Brain is A-OK," a six-week journey to unlock your full potential. adhdforsmartwomen.com/go. Let’s start this adventure together.