Resources
After receiving my ADHD diagnosis, I chose to build a life and career that plays to my strengths and incorporates my personal values.
Below are some of the things that have helped me understand my brain and how to work with it, rather than against it. These books come recommended by my ADHD-specialist psychiatrist, my ADHD coach, my sister who also has ADHD, my friends, and some are my own finds.
These are all books, because that’s how I best take in information – both through reading and listening to audiobooks. I know reading is not everyone’s cup of tea (especially if you struggle with focus!) so I encourage you to find what works best for you.
Books about ADHD
Books that deal directly with ADHD (except Unmasking Autism - I’m not autistic as far as I know, but the principles around unmasking in this book apply equally well to ADHD, and offered me a life-changing re-frame).
Archer, D. (2016) The ADHD advantage: What you thought was a diagnosis may be your greatest strength, Avery Publishing Group.
Boseley, M. (2023) The year I met my brain, Penguin Books Australia.
Hallowell, E. and Ratey, J. (2023) Delivered from distraction: Getting the most out of life with attention deficit disorder, Sheldon Press.
Mate, G. (2019) Scattered minds: A new look at the origins and healings of attention deficit disorder, Penguin Books Australia.
Nerenberg, J. (2020) Divergent mind: Thriving in a world that wasn’t designed for you, Harper Collins.
Price, D. (2022) Unmasking autism: The power of embracing our hidden neurodiversity, Monoray.
Saltz, G. (2024) The power of different: The link between disorder and genius, Robinson.
Other books that helped
These are not ADHD-specific but gave me insights and ideas for how to build and live a life that focuses on my strengths.
Lee, B. (2021) Who gets to be smart, Allen & Unwin.
Mate, G. (2022) The myth of normal: Trauma, illness and healing in a toxic culture, Avery Publishing Group
Newport, C. (2020) Digital minimalism: Choosing a focused life in a noisy world, Penguin.
Price, D. (2022) Laziness does not exist, Atria.
Van der Kolk, B. (2015) The body keeps the score, Penguin Press.
Westover, T. (2018) Educated, Penguin Books Australia.