In this episode of ADHDtime on Air, Daniella Karidi, PhD, speaks with Cate Osborn, known online as Catieosaurus, certified sex educator, award-winning podcast host, and author of The ADHD Field Guide for Adults.

The conversation explores the realities of living with ADHD beyond stereotypes and productivity advice. Cate discusses ADHD and intimacy, emotional regulation, rejection sensitivity, late diagnosis, masking, relationships, and the importance of accessible ADHD resources and support.

Cate also shares the behind-the-scenes process of creating an ADHD-friendly book, including the role of collaborative authorship, community participation, accommodations, and transparency in the writing process. Together, Daniella and Cate discuss the emotional impact of ADHD across the lifespan, the importance of strengths-based approaches, and why difficult topics such as self-harm, suicide, and eating disorders need to be openly discussed within ADHD conversations.

⚠️ Content Note:
This episode includes discussions of self-harm, suicide, eating disorders, and mental health struggles.

• ADHD affects relationships, intimacy, emotional regulation, and mental health, not just attention and productivity
• Accessible and ADHD-friendly resources can change how people learn, engage, and feel understood
• Diagnosis and self-understanding can provide validation and open doors to support at any age
• Building systems around strengths, accommodations, and compassion is often more effective than relying on shame or “trying harder”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to ADHD and Community Engagement

02:05 The Writing Process Behind the ADHD Field Guide

04:08 Navigating Support Systems for ADHD

06:59 Community Contributions and Diverse Experiences

09:46 Intimacy, Sex, and ADHD

12:15 The Importance of Understanding ADHD

15:05 The Value of Diagnosis and Validation

17:41 Self-Diagnosis and Accessing Support

20:38 Creating Accessible ADHD Literature

22:59 Pride in Authorship and Community Impact

24:58 Historical Perspectives on ADHD

26:00 Creating Jumping Off Points for Learning

27:20 Navigating Conversations About Intimacy and ADHD

29:03 Understanding ADHD's Impact on Relationships

32:20 Addressing Difficult Topics: Sex, Addiction, and Mental Health

37:08 The Importance of Discussing Eating Disorders and ADHD

44:22 Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Aspirations

If you or someone you know needs support:
📞 Call or text 988 in the United States and Canada
💬 Chat: https://988lifeline.org/chat
🌍 International crisis resources: https://findahelpline.com

Guest:
Cate Osborn / @catieosaurus
Website: www.catieosaurus.com

Daniella Karidi @ADHDtime

www.ADHDtime.com

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