Why ADHD Feels Different for Women: Hormones & the Brain with Dr. Jolene Brighten

Are you wondering why ADHD can feel so different for women, especially during perimenopause and other major hormonal transitions? In this episode of Beauty Bytes with Dr. Kay: Secrets of a Plastic Surgeon, I am joined by Dr. Jolene Brighten, a women’s health expert, author, and hormone specialist, to break down the complex relationship between ADHD, estrogen, dopamine, brain energy, and inflammation. Dr. Brighten explains why ADHD is not simply an inability to focus, but a disorder of attention regulation and executive function, and why symptoms can become more noticeable as hormones begin to fluctuate. We dive into the role of estrogen in dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and norepinephrine signaling, as well as the emerging connection between ADHD and mitochondrial dysfunction. Dr. Brighten also discusses why perimenopause can intensify brain fog, forgetfulness, emotional reactivity, sleep disruption, and difficulty concentrating, and how neuroinflammation and declining brain energy may contribute. We also explore practical strategies for supporting the ADHD brain, including exercise, protein intake, blood sugar regulation, sleep optimization, magnesium, creatine, saffron, and other nutrients that may support cognitive function. From GLP-1 medications and thyroid health to stress, sleep, and lifestyle habits, this conversation looks at ADHD through a whole-body lens and gives women a clearer understanding of why their brain may feel different at different stages of life.

Guest Information: Dr. Jolene Brighten is a women’s health expert, author, and host of The Dr. Brighten Show. Her upcoming book, ADHD in Women, explores how female hormones influence ADHD symptoms across the lifespan. You can find her online at @DrJoleneBrighten and learn more about her work at drbrighten.com.