Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Everyone has trouble paying attention sometimes, but people who struggle with daily inattention may suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Once considered a childhood problem, ADHD often persists in adulthood, leading to work, school, or relationship failure, depression, and substance abuse. For help with ADHD, see these resources.
WEBSITES
ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER ASSOCIATION (ADDA)
Website with many downloadable articles on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Directory of ADHD support groups, coaches, and treatment specialists.
CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (CHADD)
Website with extensive information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Support group directory. Excellent Attention magazine with membership ($53/year).
ADDVANCE
Website of Patricia Quinn MD and Kathleen Nadeau PhD. Many practical articles. Especially good for young adults transitioning to work or college.
DR. HALLOWELL
Website of Ed Hallowell MD, author (with John Ratey) of Driven to Distraction and other excellent books. Excellent advice regarding self-care.
DR. THOMAS E. BROWN
Suggests ADD/ADHD reflects impairment in the brain’s executive functions, a viewpoint that is leading to helpful new treatments for adults with ADHD. Links to his books, articles, and other media.
PUBLICATIONS
TAKING CHARGE OF ADULT ADHD by Russell A. Barkley, PhD (Guilford, 2010)
Authoritative book by a renowned researcher and psychotherapist. Thorough, practical explanation of ADHD assessment and treatment in a readable format.
DELIVERED FROM DISTRACTION by Ed Hallowell, MD, John Ratey, MD (Random House, 2005)
Suggests ADD/ADHD is a human trait that becomes a disorder only if it impairs your life. Profiles people with this trait who have triumphed by seeking appropriate treatment and building on their strengths.
UNDERSTAND YOUR BRAIN, GET MORE DONE: ADHD EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS WORKBOOK by Ari Tuckman, PsyD (Specialty Press, 2012)
Helps the reader to identify which brain-based processes need tuning up. Includes strategies for improving focus, working memory, attention, organization, time management, and response inhibition.
THE CLUTTER DIET: THE SKINNY ON ORGANIZING YOUR HOME AND TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE by Lorie Marrero (Reason Press, 2009)
Practical guide to avoiding different clutter habits, curing procrastination, finishing projects, and adding healthy new habits. Author is a Certified Professional Organizer in Austin, Texas.