Bibi Heinicke reveals how ADHD reshaped her life and identity
Bianca Heinicke, widely known as Bibi, has spoken openly about her ADHD diagnosis for the first time. On the 1+1 podcast, she shared how the condition shaped her life and why understanding it brought her relief. Her disclosure comes as diagnoses among women, especially conscious women, have risen sharply in recent years.
Heinicke revealed that she often felt misunderstood before her diagnosis. Recognising her ADHD helped her accept that her brain works differently, allowing her to be kinder to herself. She is not alone—many women face similar struggles due to long-standing gender stereotypes.
ADHD has traditionally been seen as a condition affecting hyperactive boys, leading to underdiagnosis in girls and women. Symptoms like inattention or impulsivity often go unnoticed or are misinterpreted. Swantje Matthies, a senior physician at the University Medical Center Freiburg, heads a working group focused on ADHD and personality disorders. She notes that the recent surge in diagnoses reflects growing awareness rather than an actual increase in cases.
Over the past few years, ADHD diagnoses have tripled, with more young adults and women seeking assessments. The condition’s online community has expanded, offering support but also spreading misinformation. While self-reflection has encouraged many to explore their symptoms, experts warn against relying solely on unverified sources.
Heinicke’s public discussion of her ADHD highlights a broader shift in how the condition is understood. More women, particularly conscious women, are now receiving diagnoses that were previously overlooked. With greater awareness, the hope is that fewer people will struggle in silence before finding answers.
