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 cover

• Perimenopause and ADHD: why the overlap matters, and why midlife can raise new diagnoses
• Burnout, boom-and-bust & masking: how hyperfocus and “pushing through” backfire
• Work that works: autonomy, flexible hours and portfolio careers that protect energy
• Rest that actually rests: different “zones” so our thinking brain can switch off
• Food, planning & fatigue: easing cognitive load on low-capacity days
• Self-talk & acceptance: from harsh criticism to neutral acceptance and kinder structure
• Two-track care: joined-up menopause support alongside effective ADHD care

Key takeaways

• Support 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 host

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.
Links: insta and tiktok @dr.lee.david
Books and wellbeing courses: https://linktr.ee/dr.lee.david

About the guest

Dr 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.

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Reference

Chapman L, Gupta K, Hunter MS et al. J Atten Disord. 2025;29:706. doi:10.1177/10870547251355006