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by Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, Ph.D.
New Harbinger; $12.95
Purchase 10 Simple Solutions to Adult ADD
Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, Ph.D., a counselor and ADHD coach, has condensed a great deal of useful information on how to cope with ADD into a short, user-friendly book. The longest chapter is 17 pages, and most are 13 or fewer. The book has large, bold headings and plenty of bulleted lists, making it easy to take in all the information.
10 Simple Solutions to Adult ADD starts with an overview of symptoms, myths, and facts about ADD, and a clear discussion of medication as part of a treatment plan. The rest of the book covers a variety of topics, such as time management, organization, losing things, managing money, practicing self-care, finding the right job, and improving social skills. It’s amazing how comprehensive a 131-page book can be!
Because the author is trying to cover so much so briefly, the writing seems abrupt at times, but she tells it like it is. I cheered when she recommended that, for every new item we buy or bring into the house, it would be wise to donate or throw out a similar item. As Sarkis says, we ADDers have to cut off clutter at the source. “Clutter around your home can build up fast,” she writes. “It is almost like a snowball going down a hill, getting bigger and bigger with time.” As someone who’s seen too many clients overwhelmed by clutter, I’d say this is an apt comparison.
Sarkis keeps a light, humorous tone while addressing important topics. For example, in her section on building stronger relationships, she sums up the value of compromise: “You can either be married or be right.” Like this one, many of the tips in this book won’t be easy to put into practice right away, but they are simple and right on target.
