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An unexpected ADHD diagnosis following her daughter’s traumatic birth (Erica Shoemate’s story)
Episode 111
When Erica Shoemate gave birth to her daughter Nia, she was told Nia wouldn’t survive. But today, Nia is 7 years old — and that traumatic birth became a turning point in Erica’s life.
Erica shares how her postpartum experience led to diagnoses of anxiety and PTSD, and eventually ADHD. A former national security analyst turned maternal health strategist and policy advocate, Erica reflects on the layered stigma of mental health in the Black community. She also talks with Laura about ADHD and hormones. And she shares the comment her husband made that sparked her ADHD evaluation.
Related resources
- Erica’s website, www.ericalshoemate.com
- A guide to ADHD and hormones
- From the Hyperfocus podcast: Did my ADHD make me more likely to have postpartum depression?
- ADHD and pregnancy
Timestamps
(00:00) Intro
(02:09) How Erica’s pregnancy journey led to her ADHD diagnosis
(10:07) What Erica’s diagnosis has taught her about herself
(16:10) Why Erica speaks openly about her ADHD diagnosis
(21:26) Erica’s maternal health advocacy work
For a transcript and more resources, visit the “ADHD Aha!” show page on Understood.org. We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at adhdaha@understood.org or record a message for us here.
Explore Through My Eyes today. Step into the world of three kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia — helping you see differently so you can act differently.
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Published on 4 weeks ago