Women with Attention Deficit Disorder

Sari Solden
Underwood Books (2005)
ISBN 1887424970
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (8/06)

Traditionally, so much attention is given to children with ADD, especially boys.  Girls usually get diagnosed later because they tend not to act out as badly as the boys.  Instead, they might get seen as being underachievers.  It is refreshing to read a book about how woman are dealing with the issues caused by having ADD.  Through this book, I learned that it is a really difficult path to have to follow, but the author, using her own personal and professional experience, teaches woman how to live successfully.  What I really like about this book is that while she talks about the pain associated with having to live with ADD, including for friends and family members, she also talks about how to embrace the disorder and points out positive aspects of it.

There are four stages of living with ADD.  The first is “surviving”.  In this part of the book, Solden discusses her own personal experiences as well as those of others.  This stage is very difficult because the person who has it doesn’t really understand what they are dealing with yet.  The second stage is “hiding”.  In this section, Solden discusses the shame that comes attached to having ADD.  As a result of this, secondary problems can develop, including; underachievement, depression and relationship problems.  Woman are expected to have more organizational skills and if they are unable to conform to the standards expected of them because of ADD, they have great difficulty accepting themselves.

The third stage is “emerging”.  This is where the diagnosis by a professional comes in and a plan of treatment can be developed.  Solden discusses the MESST model of treatment.  This involves Medication, Education, Strategies, Support and Therapy.  In the fourth stage, “embracing,” you become proactive.  You learn to restructure your life; renegotiate relationships; and redefine your self-image.
           
This second edition has been revised.  In addition to adding to other areas, the medical section has been updated.  I highly recommend this book for women with ADD or their family members.  If you suspect that you or someone you know has it, I think that this is a great resource to start with.  Solden writes with warmth and compassion, yet she still manages to convey the necessary information that you need to have to understand the disorder. 

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