ADHD Aha! An unexpected ADHD diagnosis following her daughter’s traumatic birth (Erica Shoemate’s story)
Aug 19, 2025
Erica Shoemate, a maternal health strategist and advocate, shares her powerful story of navigating motherhood after a traumatic birth. She reveals how her experiences led to a late ADHD diagnosis and highlights the layered mental health stigma that exists within the Black community. Erica discusses the intersection of ADHD and hormonal changes, reflecting on her challenges with postpartum anxiety and PTSD. Her journey underscores the importance of mental health advocacy and support, encouraging open conversations about these issues.
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A Husband's Observation Sparked Diagnosis
- Erica's husband noticed she jumped around in conversations and suggested she explore attention differences.
- That comment prompted Erica to ask her psychiatrist about ADHD and pursue assessment and diagnosis.
Diagnosis Clarified Longstanding Struggles
- Erica received diagnoses of ADHD-inattentive type and major depression, which also reaffirmed her anxiety and PTSD.
- The ADHD diagnosis helped explain persistent functional struggles in personal life after trauma.
Account For Prolonged Postpartum Hormone Effects
- Recognize that postpartum hormonal changes can extend well beyond a year, especially while nursing.
- Expect cognitive and emotional regulation to take longer when breastfeeding or pumping for many months.