Finding choice through perimenopause, ADHD and burnout

24/09/2025 43 min Temporada 1 Episodio 2
Finding choice through perimenopause, ADHD and burnout

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode Dr Lee David is joined by psychologist Dr Lindsey Roberts to explore how perimenopause and ADHD intersect — from burnout, sleep disruption and emotional swings to masking, hyperfocus and the boom-and-bust cycle. Lindsey shares her late-diagnosis story, the role of joy, creativity and time outdoors, and why flexible, person-centred workplace support matters. Together they look at practical ways to protect energy — pacing, varied forms of rest, planning supports and compassionate self-talk — alongside the value of joined-up menopause and ADHD care.Who this episode supports Anyone navigating perimenopause (with or without an ADHD diagnosis), colleagues and loved ones who want to understand, clinicians supporting wellbeing, and leaders building flexible, neuro-inclusive teams.What we coverPerimenopause and ADHD: why the overlap matters, and why midlife can raise new diagnosesBurnout, boom-and-bust & masking: how hyperfocus and “pushing through” backfireWork that works: autonomy, flexible hours and portfolio careers that protect energyRest that actually rests: different “zones” so our thinking brain can switch offFood, planning & fatigue: easing cognitive load on low-capacity daysSelf-talk & acceptance: from harsh criticism to neutral acceptance and kinder structureTwo-track care: joined-up menopause support alongside effective ADHD careKey takeawaysSupport both tracks. Menopause care and ADHD care are distinct yet interconnected.Boundaries for hyperfocus. Creativity thrives with planned pauses and recovery.Rest is not the same as stop. Choose the rest your brain needs today.Make life easier on hard days. Prepare defaults and simple routines.Soften the inner voice. Swap self-blame for neutral acceptance and gentle structure.About the hostDr Lee David is a GP, CBT therapist and author specialising in mental health and wellbeing.  Dr Lee David is a GP, CBT therapist and author specialising in mental health and wellbeing. She is the founder of 10 Minute CBT and a podcast host sharing evidence-based tools for self-doubt, stress and everyday decision-making. Lee has written books on CBT, mindfulness and teen wellbeing, and speaks regularly at conferences and in the media. Away from work she enjoys running, hiking, singing in a choir and spending time outdoors with her family. You can find Lee on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. And you can find more about her books and wellbeing courses here About the guestDr Lindsey Roberts is a Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years of  experience in the health and neuropsychology sectors having worked across the NHS, academic, pharmaceutical industry and the charitable sectors in teaching, research and knowledge exchange. Lindsey loves to make a difference to people’s quality of life whether through one-to-one support or tailored interventions that spread to support many. To-date, Lindsey has brought in, or been a part of a team, who have brought in just under £2m in research grant funding for applied research in healthcare.Share & followIf this conversation was helpful, please follow, rate and share with someone who might value the space. It helps others find the podcast.ReferenceChapman L, Gupta K, Hunter MS et al. J Atten Disord. 2025;29:706. doi:10.1177/10870547251355006