The Everything Health Guide to Adult ADD/ADHD by Carole Jacobs Summary

The Everything Health Guide to Adult ADD/ADHD provides a comprehensive overview of adult ADHD, covering diagnosis, treatment options, and daily coping strategies. Co-authored by Carole Jacobs and Isadore Wendel, PhD, it emphasizes ADHD as a biological condition—not a result of laziness—and combines expert insights with actionable advice for managing symptoms like fatigue and depression.

Adults with ADHD, their families, healthcare professionals, and anyone seeking to understand the disorder will benefit. The book offers practical guidance for navigating diagnoses, medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, making it ideal for those seeking evidence-based strategies or advocating for accommodations.

Yes—it balances research-backed explanations with relatable advice, such as identifying symptoms like chronic disorganization and selecting specialists. Critics note its accessibility, though some readers desire deeper exploration of niche topics. Its focus on reducing stigma and empowering self-advocacy makes it a valuable primer.

Carole Jacobs is a seasoned health writer with contributions to Shape and Living Fit magazines, while co-author Isadore Wendel, PhD, adds clinical expertise. Their collaboration blends Jacobs’ accessible style with Wendel’s research rigor, validated further by a foreword from psychiatrist Theresa Cerulli.

The authors clarify that ADHD stems from neurological differences, not personal failings, citing brain chemistry and genetic factors. This framework helps readers reframe challenges like impulsivity as manageable symptoms, not moral shortcomings.

It explores medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle adjustments (e.g., organizational tools, diet changes). The guide advises tailoring treatments to individual needs and includes tips for finding qualified specialists and evaluating therapy options.

Yes—it advocates therapy as a complement to medication, particularly for addressing emotional impacts like low self-esteem. Cognitive-behavioral techniques are highlighted for reshaping negative thought patterns linked to ADHD.

It provides step-by-step guidance for post-diagnosis steps: evaluating treatment plans, communicating needs at work, and building support networks. Real-life examples illustrate how to apply strategies like time-blocking and prioritization.

Some readers find its overview too broad, desiring more depth on topics like gender differences in ADHD. Others praise its clarity but note it may not suit those seeking advanced strategies.

While both cover diagnosis and treatment, Jacobs’ guide prioritizes concise, actionable steps over anecdotal narratives. It’s better for quick reference, whereas Driven to Distraction offers more patient stories.

Yes—it recommends energy-management techniques like structured routines, nutrient-dense diets, and targeted exercise. The authors link fatigue to ADHD’s cognitive demands and offer mitigations like task chunking.

With rising awareness of neurodiversity, the book’s anti-stigma message and workplace accommodation tips align with current trends. Updated research on adult ADHD ensures its continued utility for readers and professionals.