When ADHD Meets Early Gender Transition: Managing Change, Identity, and Logistics
Description
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the intense overlap between ADHD and early gender transition, focusing on how sudden, widespread change taxes executive function and identity. Ash describes the real-world disruptions—wardrobe overhaul, haircuts, public outings, bathroom access, and safety concerns—that made routine tasks overwhelming. He discusses how ADHD can make introspection and identity work harder, and why finding queer and trans communities provides essential context, normalization, and compassion during that liminal period.
He also addresses medical and emotional factors: the practicalities of hormone therapy (scheduling, dosing forms like gels that require stillness), how hormones can alter attention and emotional experience, and the increased need for logistical planning and accessible care. Both hosts emphasize the importance of supportive networks, adaptive strategies (including coaching and somatic outlets like kickboxing), and small, present-focused steps to move forward while navigating the fog of transition.
Episode links + resources:
For more of the Translating ADHD podcast:
- Episode Transcripts: visit TranslatingADHD.com and click on the episode
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- Visit the Website: TranslatingADHD.com
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