<p>Ever feel like the world just <em>doesn't get</em> what’s happening inside your brain? In this episode of the <b>I Have ADHD Podcast</b>, I sit down with my client and colleague Dr. Priyanka Rao, and we dive headfirst into the wild, twisty world of ADHD and autism—especially how it shows up in women.</p><p>We’re talking about the real stuff—like why it’s so dang hard to get diagnosed, the silent battles happening behind the scenes, and why neurodiversity-affirming care is a game-changer (spoiler: it’s life-changing). Dr. Rao opens up about her late-in-life diagnosis and lets us in on what she <em>wished</em> she knew sooner.</p><p>Oh, and hormones? Yep, they’re in the mix too. We cover how they mess with ADHD, the overlap with autism, and—most importantly—how you can speak up and advocate for yourself during assessments.</p><p>I also unpack some heavy hitters: perfectionism (ugh), why self-diagnosis is totally valid, and how the mental health field needs to step it up when it comes to cultural competence and understanding neurodivergent brains.</p><p>This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and practical tips to help you feel <em>seen</em>, <em>heard</em>, and ready to take on the world (or at least that overdue to-do list).</p><p>Hit play and let’s get into it!<br>Watch this episode on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@I.have.adhd.podcast">YouTube</a><br>Want help with your ADHD? Join <a href="https://ihaveadhd.com/focused/?internal-link">FOCUSED</a>!<br>Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343<br>Hang out with Kristen on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/i.have.adhd.podcast/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@i.have.adhd.podcast?_t=8q1HUBkkYE9&_r=1">TikTok</a></p>