Fashionably Late: *Women, ADHD & Navigating a Late Diagnosis

Have you recently been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult—or suspect it’s been missed for years? You’re not alone.

This event is a presentation, Q&A and conversation designed for AFAB, non-binary and trans folx who are navigating a late-diagnosis of ADHD. It is a concise, informative and practical-knowledge session presented in a light-hearted and supportive environment. Partners of all genders are very welcome to join.

Grouse, where the event is taking place, is a wonderful, inclusive & queer-friendly venue, and Room 7 where we will be has a cosy lounge room feel.

Topics covered in the talk will include:

1. What Late-Diagnosis ADHD Actually Is

• The role of masking, perfectionism and people-pleasing

• Why ADHD often goes unnoticed in girls and women

• Why many women get diagnosed only after burnout, motherhood or career struggles

2. Understanding the Emotional Impact

• The grief, clarity and self-understanding of finally knowing/realising

• Rewriting your personal narrative (you’re not lazy or too much)

• ADHD and identity: How it affects self-esteem, relationships and work

3. Research & the Neurobiology

• Executive functions: What they are and the impact of ADHD

• ADHD types and how they present in adult women

• The role of hormones & life stages that influence symptoms (e.g., peri/menopause)

About me:

I'm an inter-disciplinary performance maker working across physical theatre, dance, circus and contemporary classical music. I've also had an extensive career in arts and music festivals leadership including numerous roles at Mona Foma, Dark Mofo and Junction Arts Festival, and in 2020-21 was Head of Programming at Ten Days on The Island (Tas). I've taught theatre & performance at various schools and colleges in Australia & the U.S including Victorian College of the Arts and Princeton University.

I was diagnosed with ADHD 15 years ago and over the last three years, I've developed a neurodiversity consultancy practice specialising in the creative industries, workplace training, late-diagnosis education & advocacy, and urban design. I offer education & awareness training to arts orgs, artists and architects, and also provide larger scale training & education to the corporate and government sectors.

In 2024 I was a key advisor on Footscray Community Arts Centre's major precinct redevelopment, and I have an ongoing series of free & low-cost public information sessions around neurodiversity & ADHD.

Get in touch anytime.

Laura

Email: laura@laurasheedyconsulting.com.au

Insta: @fashionablylate_adhd & viewpoints_laurasheedy.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laura-sheedy