By Mindy Rubenstein
To be a woman on this earth is to carry the spark of creation within—a soul housed in a body, navigating life with clarity, confidence and connection.
Six months ago, after extensive testing and evaluations with a doctor here in Israel, I was diagnosed with ADHD. This came after years of trying to understand what was going on with me. Previously, in the United States, I’d been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, CPTSD, depression, and anxiety, but none of those fully explained my experiences.
ADHD—Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder—is often misunderstood. For women, especially, it’s common to be diagnosed later in life because the symptoms can present differently. It’s not just about being distracted or hyperactive; it’s about struggling to focus, manage time, regulate emotions, and handle constant mental chatter. For me, ADHD has meant cycles of overwhelm and frustration—but it’s also meant a lifetime of creativity, the ability to think outside the box, and a natural understanding of spiritual ideas.
For 25 years, I’ve worked as a writer, artist, and teacher, channeling that creativity and unique perspective into my work. Now, with the clarity of this diagnosis, I feel like I finally have the tools to bring even more balance and purpose to my life.
This understanding, combined with four years of deep work in a 12-step program—spending thousands of hours in group meetings, leading meetings, and going through the 12 steps—has given me a profound sense of self-awareness, spiritual awakening, and self-love.
This is a chance to restart my life with the help of my higher power and my incredible support network. I’m learning to see my ADHD not as a flaw, but as a vital part of who I am—a part that fuels my creativity and depth. I’m developing the skills to navigate life with more confidence and peace, and I’m so grateful for this new beginning.
I hope sharing my journey helps others feel less alone, whether they’re walking a similar path or supporting someone who is.
I’m writing an article about women diagnosed with ADHD later in life. If you or someone you know may like to be interviewed and share their experience and strength, please reach out to me.
Mindy Rubenstein is a journalist, editor, and teacher with 25 years of experience. She has published hundreds of articles in print and online, authored a memoir, and created 13 magazines for women, with the next one set to launch in Purim 2025. She is also a certified holistic healer and spiritual coach, with a master’s degree in journalism. Mindy grew up around the block from her husband in Florida, and together they now live in Israel with their four children. With the creation of Mindy’s Studio located in Zichron Yaakov, she combines her expertise in writing, teaching, and editing with her passion for holistic wellness and spiritual growth.
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Mindy Morasha 