[Book Summary] Driven to Distraction— Edward M. Hallowell M.D. and John J. Ratey M.D.

Rating: ★★★★★

Have you ever felt that you don't belong to a group? Have you ever been told that why you can't just behave yourself, or act like your brother/sister? Have you wondered why you were born so different and regretted your life?

If so, read on to see if you may have ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). Or more precisely, AID which stands for Attention Inconsistency Disorder.

This book begins by explaining what ADD is and how it manifests in individuals. It covers both the cognitive and emotional aspects of the disorder. Then the authors discuss the process of diagnosing ADD and the various symptoms that may indicate its presence. They emphasize the importance of a comprehensive evaluation. So don't jump to a conclusion by yourself! Seek help instead!

After the introduction, the book explores how ADD can affect various aspects of daily life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being. Real-life stories and examples are used to illustrate the challenges faced by individuals with ADD.

If you happen to have ADD or a family member with ADD, this book may help you greatly. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to coping strategies. This includes both medical interventions and lifestyle adjustments. The authors provide practical advice like applying external structures.

A summary of benefits is provided below.

1. Importance of External Organization: The book emphasizes the significance of creating external structures and systems to compensate for internal challenges in individuals with ADD. This involves setting up routines, schedules, and organizational tools that provide a clear framework for daily activities.

2. Compensation for Cognitive Challenges: Individuals with ADD often face difficulties in organizing tasks, managing time, and sustaining focus. External structures act as compensatory mechanisms to address these cognitive challenges.

3. Creating Consistency: External structures provide consistency and predictability, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADD. Consistent routines help reduce anxiety and make it easier to transition between different tasks and activities.

4. Visual Aids and Timers: The book suggests using visual aids, such as calendars, planners, and to-do lists, to make tasks and deadlines more tangible. Timers and alarms can be employed to signal transitions between activities, helping individuals stay on track.

5. Technology Tools: Leveraging technology, such as task management apps, can be an effective way to create external structures. These tools can provide reminders, alerts, and visual cues to assist with task management.

6. Involving Others: External structures can also involve the support of family, friends, or colleagues. Communicating goals and seeking accountability from others can help reinforce the external structure and provide additional support.

7. Positive Reinforcement: The authors highlight the importance of positive reinforcement within the external structure. Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, can motivate individuals with ADD to continue utilizing the external support systems.

Last but not least, Hallowell and Ratey highlight that individuals with ADD often possess unique strengths and talents. They discuss how to harness these strengths and channel them into positive outcomes.

To me, people with ADD are born with superpower. With micro dose of medicine, they can switch gears to function like people without ADD. If a situation calls for their strength, creativity, or energy, they can go full speed in their performance mode!

We simply need to appreciate the difference and collaborate better. By the way, the authors mention [Book Summary] Getting to Yes—Roger Fisher and William Ury when it comes to discussing with people having ADD. I recommend you to check it out.