When simple things aren’t simple with ADHD (Terry Matlen’s story)

When simple things aren’t simple with ADHD (Terry Matlen’s story)

January 20, 2026 · 28 min · Episode 124

About this episode

Terry Matlen shares her ADHD journey and offers guidance for women with ADHD.

Psychotherapist, author, and ADHD pioneer Terry Matlen shares what led to her ADHD diagnosis. Terry’s path started with years of shame and the feeling that everyday life was inexplicably harder than it should be. She describes getting overwhelmed by ordinary moments: making dinner, figuring out what to wear, and freezing at the sink with a wooden spoon in her hand. Terry is an expert on ADHD in women. She talks about mood regulation and self-esteem with empathy. And she offers hard-won guidance for women with ADHD, especially moms. The conversation is honest — and likely to feel familiar to anyone who’s ever felt like everyday life is too much to handle.

People in this episode

Host: Laura Key

Guest: Terry Matlen

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Understood.org

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