ADHD diagnosis is helping Carla Ciccone reframe her past

Carla Ciccone received an ADHD diagnosis at age 39 and wrote the memoir Nowhere Girl about women whose ADHD went undiagnosed; she says the diagnosis changed her relationships and how she talks to herself.

Carla Ciccone, a Toronto writer, received an ADHD diagnosis at 39 and has written a memoir titled Nowhere Girl. The book reflects on the experience of women whose ADHD went undiagnosed and on how a late diagnosis altered her sense of self. She spoke about the memoir on the Bookends podcast with Mattea Roach. Key facts: - Ciccone's diagnosis came after a therapist raised the possibility and a psychiatrist conducted a formal assessment of her history. - Nowhere Girl addresses how ADHD often appears differently in girls and women and was less visible in earlier research and clinical attention. - Ciccone says the diagnosis prompted changes in her self-talk and in some family relationships. - Since the book's publication in the fall, she has received messages from readers who felt seen by the memoir. Summary: Ciccone's late ADHD diagnosis led her to reframe past struggles and to explore how undiagnosed neurodivergence affected her life and relationships. Her memoir has connected with readers who report similar experiences. Undetermined at this time.