Updatecast: Part 1 - Gratitude, ADHD Meds And The Microbiome

Have you ever noticed that a simple “thank you” can brighten your day? I’m not just talking about good manners. In this episode (podcast player at the top of the page), we explore how an intentional practice of gratitude can shift your mindset, why different ADHD medications work in their own ways, and how your microbiome might play a surprisingly big role in how you feel.

We’ll dig into the power of gratitude and how it intersects with neurodiversity. We also take a look at different medication options that can help with ADHD symptoms, plus the fascinating science behind your gut health and how it connects to your brain. Let’s kick off a fresh perspective on thinking well, staying healthy, and taking small steps toward better wellbeing.

Why Gratitude Matters

It can feel corny to keep reminding yourself to be grateful. Yet, gratitude is one of those little tools that doesn’t cost you a penny. It’s a simple mindset shift that starts your day on a brighter note. Even if you only remember to reflect on one thing you’re thankful for, you’ll often notice that stress and self-doubt soften.

Research suggests that grateful people might experience more optimism and better relationships. My personal take is that it’s not about ignoring the tough stuff. You still recognise challenges. You just choose to focus on what’s going right, even in small ways. That changes the story you tell yourself each day.

“Sometimes the best way to handle stress is to pause, breathe, and remind yourself what’s working in your life.”

When I mentioned this in the episode, I heard from a listener who said the idea felt too simple. But it’s easy solutions that often get overlooked. We can be so busy looking for complicated fixes that we miss the easy wins under our noses.

Options for ADHD Medication

If you’ve listened to my other episodes, you’ll know I talk a lot about being transparent. Medication is a tricky area for many of us with neurodiverse minds. We wonder which medication is right, or if we should take it at all. The answer isn’t the same for everyone.

Stimulant medications can boost dopamine levels, which might help with focus and alertness. Non-stimulants can support attention and impulse control in a steadier way. Some folks try both at different times in their lives. Others prefer not taking them altogether. There’s no right or wrong if you’re finding an approach that works for you.

In the podcast, I discuss the following medication insights:

• Stimulants often work quickly, but can wear off by the end of the day.
• Non-stimulants can take a while to build in your system, but might have fewer spikes.
• Regular check-ins with a professional are crucial if you decide to use meds.
• It’s not cheating. It’s a tool. If it helps, it helps.

Some people adore stimulants. Others hate the highs and lows. Some folks swear by non-stimulants because they like the gradual feel. You might also find that combining medication with lifestyle changes is the sweet spot.

The Microbiome’s Impact

Gut health is a buzzword, but it’s more than hype. Your body is home to trillions of tiny organisms that form your microbiome. They’re crucial to how you digest food. They might also play a bigger role in brain function than we first realised.

Scientists are still exploring how gut bacteria interact with neurotransmitters like serotonin. Early findings suggest that there’s a two-way relationship between your microbiome and your brain. When we talked about it in the episode, I shared how you can’t always notice it consciously, but tiny changes in your gut environment might affect mood, memory, and focus.

You don’t have to read loads of research to see this in your daily life. Think about how you feel after a day of eating junk food compared to a day of balanced meals. Or how you respond to certain probiotics. Simple self-observation might reveal that your gut-brain connection makes a difference in mental clarity.

Pulling It All Together

It may seem like we talked about three separate topics in this podcast: gratitude, ADHD meds, and the microbiome. But they actually tie together in unexpected ways. A positive mindset can support healthier lifestyle choices, which can improve gut health, which can affect mood and need for medication. When you see them as pieces of a larger puzzle, you can start experimenting in small, meaningful ways.

Gratitude practices could help reduce anxiety or stress. That might mean you’re more open to dietary changes that support your gut. Perhaps you’ll find your medication balances out if you’re not dealing with as much emotional turbulence. It’s all connected.

• Try jotting down three things you’re grateful for before bed.
• Talk to a mental health professional to see if medication might help your ADHD.
• Listen to how your body feels after different foods. Notice patterns.
• Share your experiences with others who are on a similar journey.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, which might feel scary at times. But it’s also encouraging, because you can customise a path that truly works for you. Taking small steps regularly is far more sustainable than a sudden overhaul.

Key Takeaways

• Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good exercise, it can genuinely shift your mindset.
• ADHD medication is personal. Stimulants or non-stimulants might help, but it’s wise to do it under guidance.
• The gut-brain connection is real. Keep an eye on how your eating habits affect your mood and focus.
• These factors overlap. When you tackle one, consider how it might leak into another area.

Ready to dive deeper? Listen to the full episode for a more personal take on how all these ideas fit together. You’ll hear stories, practical tips, and more than a few laughs. If you want to sharpen your self-awareness or start making changes that stick, hit play at the top of the page. Let’s keep learning and growing together.