Women’s bodies evolve with each phase of life presenting unique challenges. For many, perimenopause marks a significant shift—not only in reproductive health, but also in mental and emotional well-being. Hormonal changes can leave women feeling foggy, distracted and emotionally on edge.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often thought of as a childhood condition, yet many women are diagnosed later in life—sometimes not until their 40s or 50s. For those already living with ADHD, perimenopause can amplify symptoms, creating an intersection of hormonal upheaval and ADHD symptoms for which many women are unprepared.

Perimenopause, the period leading up to menopause, can begin in a woman’s 30s or 40s and last several years as estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate. During this time, they often experience increased forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, sleep disturbances and mental fog—symptoms that overlap with ADHD traits such as trouble focusing, impulsivity, memory lapses and emotional sensitivity.

For women already diagnosed with ADHD, hormonal fluctuations in perimenopause can magnify symptoms. Combining these effects with perimenopausal symptoms can make daily life feel overwhelming. Many describe feeling a loss of control over their mental sharpness and emotions, impacting the ability to manage daily responsibilities. There are ways to manage both ADHD and perimenopause. Here are a few strategies.

Prioritize Sleep: Good sleep hygiene—avoiding screens before bed and following a regular sleep schedule—can help ease ADHD and perimenopausal symptoms.

Balance Hormones: Hormonal therapies, supplements and lifestyle changes can relieve perimenopausal symptoms. Working with a healthcare provider to balance hormones may reduce ADHD-related struggles.

Optimize Nutrition: A diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats and complex carbs supports brain health. Key nutrients such as omega-3s and magnesium help manage ADHD symptoms.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity boosts brain blood flow, enhancing focus, mood and energy levels.

Practice Mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness reduce stress and help with emotional regulation.

Board-certified Doctor of Natural Medicine Tiffany Brown-Bush is licensed through the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, and owner of Doc Brown-Bush Integrative Therapy, located at 21000 Torrence Chapel Rd., Ste 208, in Cornelius. She provides ADHD Intensives and a brain health assessment. To schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation, make an appointment or for more information, call 704-491-2216. To download the free Perimenopause and ADHD Survival Guide, visit DrBrownBush.com.

Doc Brown-Bush Integrative Therapy - 21000 Torrence Chapel Rd Ste 208 The Blake House, Cornelius, NC

When your family struggles with mental health issues, unhealthy behaviors, and brain health problems, Dr. Tiffany can provide customized natural solutions for healing. ADDRESS ADHD WIT... Read More »