October 07
Imagine trying to visualize something in your mind, only to be met with a blank canvas.
This is the reality for people with aphantasia, a condition where the mind's eye struggles to conjure images. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I'm joined by Dr. Chelsea Twiss, a licensed psychologist from Colorado with an impressive background. She specializes in ADHD, women's health, chronic pain, and relationships, and conducts psychological testing with a focus on adult ADHD. As if that wasn't enough, she's also a talented musician and artist, holding a doctorate in counseling psychology from New Mexico State University.
Interestingly, Dr. Twiss experiences hyperphantasia, the opposite of aphantasia, where mental imagery is remarkably vivid and detailed. Her research delves into the fascinating connections between ADHD, trauma, and brain function, particularly in relation to visual memory and identity. Our conversation explores how cognitive differences like aphantasia and hyperphantasia can significantly influence the ADHD experience, especially for women who often face unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Chelsea and I discuss the ways in which ADHD can alter how we perceive and process visual information, highlighting the importance of understanding these nuances when diagnosing and treating ADHD, particularly in women who are frequently misunderstood and underdiagnosed.
Chelsea shares her experience of growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and how it fuels her passion for helping others. We also touch on the powerful role hyperphantasia plays in shaping creativity, resilience, and self-acceptance, especially for those who experience the world differently.
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"I feel like I've come to a space of a bit more balance, where I'm not overcompensating as much. I’m just kind of letting myself be me."
- Dr. Chelsea Twiss
"Our experiences shape our brains and vice versa. Trauma is an experience that is very impactful on a person. It causes emotional scars that affect the way our brain works and processes information."
- Dr. Chelsea Twiss
"I think for everyone, as much as possible, make a life that works for your brain."
- Dr. Chelsea Twiss
"I feel like people need to think about what they're seeking from a diagnosis. Diagnosis should help us get support, resources, and self-understanding."
- Dr. Chelsea Twiss
- Dr. Chelsea Twiss, a psychologist specializing in ADHD and women's health, shares her childhood experiences with ADHD, including hyperactivity and classroom interruptions.
- Chelsea discusses how her ADHD was masked by achievement, leading to delayed recognition and diagnosis.
- She explains the evolution of ADHD symptoms from childhood to adulthood, noting the shift from hyperactivity to inattention and the impact of anxiety on ADHD management.
[20:00 - 40:00] Gender Differences and Professional Life with ADHD
- Chelsea discusses gender differences in ADHD symptoms, noting that girls may manifest symptoms differently, such as excessive talking.
- She shares her experiences in academia and professional life, including struggles with inattention and overcompensation.
- Chelsea emphasizes the importance of finding balance and using tools like fidgeting to manage attention and focus in adulthood.
[40:00 - 50:09] Aphantasia, ADHD, and Living Successfully
- Chelsea and Tracy discuss the intersection of ADHD and aphantasia, a condition where one cannot visualize mental images.
- They explore the potential link between ADHD and aphantasia, discussing symptoms, impact, and misdiagnosis.
- Chelsea shares her approach to living successfully with ADHD, emphasizing behavioral strategies and creating a life that works for her brain, including self-employment and flexible work hours.
