The Impact of Hormones on ADHD and Autism

  • We often experience more intense effects from hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, compared to neurotypical individuals.

  • For autistic and ADHD individuals, these changes can amplify existing challenges like emotional dysregulation, sensory sensitivities, or executive functioning difficulties. By being aware of this, we can better manage our symptoms by anticipating changes and adjusting our coping strategies accordingly.

  • For example, we can explain that certain times of the month are harder because of hormonal changes, so we might need extra help or flexibility. This helps create a supportive environment where our needs are understood, leading to better care and more suitable adjustments at work or school, improving our overall well-being.

  • Below is a selection of general articles on this topic. For information about hormone changes during pregnancy, postpartum, or breastfeeding, please visit my Being a ND Parent page.

Below is a selection of general articles on this topic. For information about hormone changes during pregnancy, postpartum, or breastfeeding, please visit my Being a ND Parent page.

adhd and hormones.

ADHD and Menopause

Yes brain fog, memory issues, and struggles with executive functioning occurs in many peri and postmenopausal women. However, for many ADHD women, their symptoms get much worse. Those who were previously diagnosed with ADHD may find that their medications and established strategies no longer work as effectively.

Additionally, some women only discover during perimenopause or menopause that they've been living with undiagnosed ADHD their entire lives. While starting ADHD medications may provide some relief, many still face significant challenges. The problem is that treatment often focuses solely on ADHD, leaving the underlying hormonal shifts unaddressed. This is why it’s crucial to address both issues simultaneously.

ADHD Impairment Peaks in Menopause

Journal Articles:

2 Perimenopause, Menopause and ADHD = “More than half indicated that a sense of overwhelm, brain fog & memory issues, procrastination, poor time-management, inattention/distractibility and disorganization had a 'life altering impact’ during the critical menopausal/perimenopausal window.”

Podcast:

“Menopause and ADHD: How Estrogen Changes Impact Dopamine, Cognition, and Women’s Health”

autism and hormones.
Reach out for help - Therapy for Pet People

Questions? Need Support?

If you have questions or need support, please reach out to me! This journey can be difficult, but you don’t have to walk it alone.

Explore More Resources

Adding to this Page…

I am continuously adding to this page as I get new information so come check back to see new additions. If you have any resources that you have found helpful but are not listed please email me as I would love to add them: henry@therapyforpetpeople.com

Please forgive any typos or broken links. As an ADHDer it’s a challenge for me to keep up but I am making it a priority as this page is truly a labor of love. Be sure to forward the link to others in your life who may benefit from this information. Bring some food and water as this is a deep deep dive into all things neurodivergent.