Did you know that parents with ADHD are more likely to experience perinatal depression and anxiety? Kylianne from the Gidget Foundation joined us on Table Talk to explain why, and how support is available.

What is the Gidget Foundation?

“The Gidget Foundation provides psychological care for new and expecting parents,” Kylianne explains. They offer services across Australia, including remote areas. Kylianne lives in Karratha and highlights their Start Talking program. “It’s a telehealth psychological service that’s been life-changing for many families in regional areas.”

How ADHD Affects New Parents

ADHD is often misunderstood. Many people only associate it with being hyperactive or distracted. But Kylianne says, “ADHD is really an emotional regulation disorder.” For new parents, this creates extra challenges:

  • Identity shifts as you adjust to parenthood
  • Sensory overload from constant demands
  • Severe fatigue
  • Executive functioning struggles (like managing tasks or decisions)
  • Relationship pressures

“All these things already challenge new parents. But if you have ADHD, it’s intensified,” Kylianne shares. This is why research now shows parents with ADHD are at higher risk of developing postnatal depression and anxiety.

The Research Behind It

Studies reveal that:

  • 25% of women diagnosed with ADHD are later diagnosed with anxiety postpartum.
  • 1 in 5 women (17%) are diagnosed with depression after giving birth.

Kylianne says, “ADHD parents may experience more stress in the first year with a new baby than those without ADHD.” She personally relates to this, adding, “It’s nice to see research validating what many of us have felt.”

What ADHD Symptoms Look Like in Parents

Some parents may not know they have ADHD. Kylianne wasn’t diagnosed until she was 31, after having two children. “I struggled with mental health issues since I was a teenager,” she says. “Looking back, the big signs were emotional overwhelm and sensory overload.” ADHD symptoms for parents might include:

  • Intense emotions without time to pause or reflect
  • Trouble managing daily tasks
  • Feeling overstimulated
  • Difficulty focusing on what’s important

“It’s about recognising the inputs coming at you,” Kylianne explains. “And knowing what tools to use to manage them.”

Signs to Look Out For

Parents should watch for:

  • Constant overwhelm
  • Persistent anxiety (racing heart, sweaty palms, constant worry)
  • Depressive symptoms (numbness, lack of energy, sleeping too much or too little)

“If you’re struggling, see a GP,” Kylianne advises. “They can assess what’s going on and guide you toward support.”

Kylieanne’s Personal Journey

For Kylianne, becoming a mum was life-changing and challenging. “I suffered a birth injury, which stopped me from exercising, a key coping tool for me,” she recalls. “I felt intense emotions and couldn’t regulate myself.”

Although she had dealt with depression and anxiety before, her symptoms after having kids felt different. “Getting diagnosed with ADHD finally made sense of it all.” She saw a psychiatrist and two psychologists to confirm the diagnosis. Since then, Kylianne has found better strategies and support.

“I don’t see ADHD as a label. I see it as a roadmap,” she says. “Once you know, you can build the right scaffolding around you.”

Finding Support

When Kylianne was diagnosed six years ago, resources were limited. But things have improved. “There are now more ADHD resources, especially for women,” Kylianne explains. She also uses her lived experience to help others find the right support faster.

Helpful support services include:

  • Gidget Foundation Australia – Specialising in perinatal mental health
  • ADHD WA
  • Attitude Magazine – Online resources and lived experiences
  • Podcasts, books, and support groups

“There are so many great resources now,” Kylianne says. “You’re not alone.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with perinatal depression or ADHD, reach out to your GP or the Gidget Foundation for support.

Listen to the full conversation below.