Motherhood can be difficult and yet amazing all at the same time. However, let’s be real, motherhood is mostly challenging and when a mother has ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), it can often come with additional considerations and hurtles to address. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that looks at the difficulties someone has with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Yet, for women with ADHD these symptoms often do not capture the true struggles that women with ADHD face on a daily basis.

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes a baby and the ADHD baggage.

Managing ADHD while being a mother may require some additional strategies and support.

Here are some key points to consider when supporting your ADHD and motherhood:

  1. Educate: Learning more about ADHD is so crucial! I can’t say that enough! Once you understand the why behind some of your struggles you likely will feel like the Little Mermaid discovering a whole new world. I recommend specifically learning more about things like executive functioning, the role of nutrition & ADHD, and the impact hormones have on ADHD symptoms.
  2. Recognize your strengths and weaknesses: Acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses is the fundamental step towards effective management. As you may know from my previous blogs, I always emphasize the importance of taking ownership of your strengths. It’s easy to get bogged down in our shortcomings and lose sight of our strengths. However, by recognizing your weaknesses (without feeling ashamed), can lead us towards finding effective solutions.
  3. Medication and therapy: Many individuals with ADHD benefit from medication, such as stimulants or non-stimulants, to help manage their symptoms. It’s essential to discuss medication options with a healthcare professional. Behavioral therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, can also be helpful in developing coping strategies around the various stressors. If you were diagnosed later in life, there likely are some additional grievances and things to process that can be helpful to do with a mental health therapist.
  4. Routines and structure: I know we tend to have a love-hate relationship when we hear routines and structure. However, establishing routines and structure in your daily life can be especially helpful when managing ADHD. Organize your home life and create schedules for yourself and your children will be well worth the time and energy in the long run. Using visual aids like charts and calendars that are visible to you daily can be beneficial for keeping everyone on track.
  5. Flexibility and self-compassion: Understand that no parent is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. This is easier said than done with people with ADHD. However, is a key component on your road to a less chaotic life. Be flexible in your approach to parenting and practice self-compassion. ADHD can be challenging, but it doesn’t define your ability to be a great mother.

Having ADHD does not mean you cannot be a loving and effective mother. With the right strategies, support, and self-awareness, you can successfully navigate the challenges of motherhood while managing your ADHD. But you don’t have to do it alone! Infact, I advise against. Connecting with other mothers who have ADHD can provide a sense of community and shared experiences. Support groups or online communities can be valuable resources for advice and understanding. This is why I am working on starting the ADHD Momma Time community. Sign up to be on the waitlist:

https://parent-child-bond.ck.page/66543ed30a

Now available! 12-week ADHD Momma Time E-workbook available for sale, purchase through

gretchen-nelson-s-school.teachable.com/p/home