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New Study Finds Podcasts Help Women With ADHD Build Confidence, Connection and Hope - Yahoo Finance

Despite ADHD diagnoses among women nearly doubling in recent years, stigma persists. A first-of-its-kind study explores how podcasts are helping women with ADHD combat this stigma.

NEW YORK, Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Understood.org, a leading nonprofit supporting the 70 million people in the U.S. who have learning and thinking differences, such as ADHD and dyslexia, today released findings from an ongoing study conducted in partnership with Torrens University Australia. The study, "Women With ADHD: The Power of Podcasts," is among the first to explore how podcasts contribute to health literacy, reduce shame and drive hope for women with ADHD. It specifically surveyed hundreds of listeners of "ADHD Aha!" and "MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel" from Understood.org, asking about their media habits and where they turn for trusted information.

Understood.org, in collaboration with Torrens University Australia, explored how podcasts can contribute to health literacy, reduce shame and combat stigma for women with ADHD.

"Podcasts can be a powerful force for change for the 26 million women in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences," said Laura Key, vice president of content at Understood.org and host of its flagship podcast, "ADHD Aha!" "For women with ADHD — a group that has long been underdiagnosed and underrepresented in research — hearing both expert insights and the lived experiences of others is helping to reduce stigma, foster self-acceptance and build confidence."

The study comes at a critical moment. The rate of new diagnoses of ADHD among women has nearly doubled in recent years, but stigma and gaps in care persist. An estimated 50 to 80 percent of women with learning and thinking differences remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

"Women with ADHD have historically been overlooked by traditional mental health care systems and have had to seek out alternative support. This research demonstrates that podcasts can improve self-concept, relationships and levels of understanding, and podcasts should be considered a complementary mental health tool," said Ann M. Bennett, Ph.D., associate director of applied research and evaluation at Understood.org.

Among the surveyed women with ADHD who listen to "ADHD Aha!" and "MissUnderstood" podcasts, it was found that:

They trust podcasts as a source of health information

  • More than 9 out of 10 say they trust these podcasts and their hosts to share accurate health information.
  • 94% say they have increased their level of ADHD expertise through podcasts and their own research, compared to social media (86%) and mainstream media (85%).
  • 93% say the hosts provide them with high-quality information.

Podcasts help them build connection and reduce shame

  • 95% believe these podcasts helped them understand the ways their ADHD affects them.
  • 7 out of 10 say that, because of these podcasts, they no longer feel ashamed of the challenges they may face due to their ADHD.
  • 92% say these podcasts help them feel more connected to other women with ADHD.
  • 71% say that these podcasts help improve their personal relationships.

Podcasts help them thrive

  • 85% say that listening to these podcasts makes them feel more confident to navigate future challenges they may face because of their ADHD.
  • 86% say that listening to these podcasts has given them hope for their future.
  • 72% say that these podcasts help them develop a sense of what makes their life meaningful.
  • 94% say that listening to these podcasts has had a positive impact on how they view themselves.

"Our research found that many women with ADHD place a high value on podcasts compared to other forms of media as a source of health information and health literacy," said Kate Ames, Ph.D., pro vice chancellor of engagement and access at Torrens University Australia. "These findings highlight the unique role expert-informed and -reviewed podcasts can play as mental health interventions."

For more information and resources about women and ADHD, visit u.org/adhd-women.

Study Methodology
This survey was conducted online internationally by Understood.org from March 12 to May 15, 2025, among 424 adults who identify as women ages 25+, of whom 384 have been diagnosed with ADHD and 40 have symptoms of ADHD. The sampling precision of the survey is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. The full sample data has a 95% credible interval of approximately 45.7% to 54.3%, or about ±4.3 percentage points around the 50% estimate. The survey results will contribute to a broader ongoing international study being conducted by Understood.org in partnership with Torrens University Australia into women with ADHD and podcast listenership.

About Understood.org
Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges, skills and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence and find support and community so they can thrive. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. Understood.org is a 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in New York. For more information, to donate, or to partner, visit u.org/media and follow us @UnderstoodOrg.

Cision

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Overview

ADHD symptoms in adults in the UK continue to challenge many, particularly women, with the recent rise in diagnoses highlighting a significant need for support. This article delves into a groundbreaking study that reveals how podcasts serve as a vital resource for women living with ADHD, helping to combat stigma and promote understanding. By harnessing the power of personal stories and expert insights, these audio platforms foster community and self-acceptance among listeners. This is particularly relevant for UK adults with ADHD, as it underscores the importance of accessible, relatable support mechanisms in managing their condition.

Key Details

The study conducted by Understood.org in partnership with Torrens University Australia surveyed 424 women aged 25 and over, of whom 384 were diagnosed with ADHD. Findings showed that over 90% of participants trust the health information shared in podcasts such as "ADHD Aha!" and "MissUnderstood." Most notably, 94% reported an increase in their ADHD expertise through listening to these podcasts, surpassing information gained from social media and traditional media sources.

Moreover, the emotional and social benefits of these podcasts are striking. The study found that 95% of women felt podcasts helped them understand how ADHD affects their lives, while 70% reported a reduced sense of shame regarding their condition. This aligns with the growing recognition of the need for supportive adult ADHD resources in the UK, as many individuals feel isolated in their experiences.

Furthermore, the research indicates that podcasts can significantly enhance self-confidence and hope for the future. An impressive 85% of respondents believe that listening to these podcasts prepares them to face future challenges related to their ADHD. This demonstrates the potential of podcasts as an effective ADHD management strategy, offering insights that can complement traditional treatment options.

Practical Takeaways

  • Explore trusted ADHD podcasts like "ADHD Aha!" for accurate information and community support.
  • Discuss your experiences with ADHD in online forums or with friends to reduce feelings of isolation.
  • Track your emotional responses to different ADHD management strategies to see what works best for you.
  • Consider incorporating podcasts into your daily routine as a way to enhance your understanding of ADHD.
  • Engage with local adult ADHD support groups in the UK for face-to-face interaction and shared experiences.
  • Research natural ADHD remedies that work to complement your existing treatment options.
  • Discuss these findings with your GP to explore potential ADHD medication options if necessary.

Bottom Line

The most crucial takeaway from this study is that podcasts can be a transformative tool for women with ADHD, fostering connection, understanding, and self-acceptance. Adults navigating ADHD in the UK will find these insights particularly beneficial as they seek effective management strategies. While podcasts are not a substitute for professional treatment, they provide a supportive resource that can enhance overall well-being. Anyone interested in how to manage ADHD without medication will find this approach valuable.

📰 Source: Read the full article

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