9 Best Books for ADHD for Adults
At Washington Psychological Wellness, a psychotherapy center in Gaithersburg, MD, we get asked the question all the time. What are the best books for ADHD? Well, we asked our mental health clinicians and put together this list of recommended readings!
Want more recommended mental health book options? Check out our Books We Love section to discover a list of hand-picked resources!
ADHD & Us: A Couple’s Guide to Loving and Living With Adult ADHD
by Anita Robertson, LCSW
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
ADHD & Us is a compassionate and insightful guide designed to help couples navigate the complexities of living with ADHD in a relationship. Written by Anita Robertson, a licensed clinical social worker, this book provides both partners with the tools they need to understand and support each other. Robertson emphasizes the importance of communication and empathy in maintaining a healthy relationship when one partner has ADHD.
The book offers practical strategies for managing common challenges, such as forgetfulness, impulsivity, and emotional regulation, that can strain relationships. Robertson also includes exercises and conversation starters to help couples work through issues together. By fostering a deeper understanding of ADHD and its impact on relationships, ADHD & Us helps couples build stronger, more supportive partnerships.
What makes this book stand out is its focus on both partners’ experiences. Robertson addresses the frustrations and challenges that both the person with ADHD and their partner may face, offering guidance on how to navigate these difficulties with patience and love. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for years, this book provides valuable insights for creating a more harmonious and fulfilling partnership.
When an Adult You Love Has ADHD: Professional Advice for Parents, Partners, and Siblings
by Russell A. Barkley, PhD
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
Renowned ADHD expert Dr. Russell A. Barkley offers a comprehensive guide for those who have a loved one with ADHD. When an Adult You Love Has ADHD is an essential resource for parents, partners, and siblings who want to better understand ADHD and provide effective support. Dr. Barkley combines scientific research with practical advice to help readers navigate the complexities of living with someone who has ADHD.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including how to recognize the symptoms of ADHD, how to communicate effectively, and how to help your loved one manage their condition. Dr. Barkley also addresses the emotional impact that ADHD can have on relationships, providing strategies for coping with frustration, resentment, and misunderstandings.
One of the key strengths of this book is its focus on building positive, supportive relationships. Dr. Barkley emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding, offering practical tips for improving communication and reducing conflict. Whether you’re a parent, partner, or sibling, this book will equip you with the tools you need to support your loved one while maintaining your own well-being.
Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D.: Stopping the Roller Coaster When Someone You Love Has Attention Deficit Disorder
by Gina Pera
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
Gina Pera’s Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D. is a candid and insightful exploration of the impact that ADHD can have on relationships. Drawing on personal experiences, interviews, and expert research, Pera provides a comprehensive guide for those who are struggling to maintain a healthy relationship with someone who has ADHD.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including how to recognize the signs of ADHD, how to communicate effectively, and how to set boundaries. Pera also delves into the emotional challenges that both partners may face, such as feelings of frustration, resentment, and helplessness. Her approach is both compassionate and practical, offering readers the tools they need to navigate the ups and downs of living with ADHD.
One of the standout features of this book is its focus on the partner’s experience. Pera acknowledges the toll that ADHD can take on relationships and offers strategies for managing the emotional and practical challenges that arise. By providing both partners with the tools they need to work together, Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D. helps couples build stronger, more resilient relationships.
The ADHD Effect on Marriage: Understand and Rebuild Your Relationship in Six Steps
by Melissa Orlov
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
In The ADHD Effect on Marriage, Melissa Orlov, a marriage consultant and expert on ADHD, offers a step-by-step guide to understanding and addressing the impact of ADHD on marital relationships. Orlov’s approach is rooted in both personal experience and professional expertise, making this book a valuable resource for couples who are struggling to maintain a healthy marriage while dealing with the challenges of ADHD.
The book is divided into six steps, each designed to help couples rebuild their relationship. Orlov begins by helping readers understand how ADHD affects both partners, from communication difficulties to emotional disconnects. She then provides practical strategies for addressing these issues, including techniques for improving communication, managing emotions, and rebuilding trust.
One of the key strengths of The ADHD Effect on Marriage is its focus on both partners’ needs. Orlov emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding, encouraging couples to work together to find solutions that work for both of them. By following the steps outlined in the book, couples can create a stronger, more supportive relationship, even in the face of ADHD-related challenges.
Driven to Distraction (Revised): Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder
by Edward M. Hallowell, MD, and John J. Ratey, MD
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
Driven to Distraction is a classic in the field of ADHD literature, written by two of the leading experts on the subject, Dr. Edward M. Hallowell and Dr. John J. Ratey. This revised edition provides an updated and comprehensive overview of ADHD, offering readers a deeper understanding of the condition and practical strategies for managing it.
The book begins by exploring the symptoms of ADHD, explaining how they manifest in both children and adults. Hallowell and Ratey then delve into the various ways that ADHD can impact different areas of life, from work and relationships to self-esteem and mental health. Their approach is both compassionate and informative, offering readers a balanced perspective on the challenges and strengths associated with ADHD.
One of the standout features of Driven to Distraction is its focus on practical solutions. The authors provide a range of strategies for managing ADHD, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. They also emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and self-compassion, encouraging readers to embrace their unique strengths and find ways to thrive with ADHD.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with ADHD for years, Driven to Distraction offers valuable insights and practical advice that can help you better understand and manage your condition.
Cluttered Mess to Organized Success Workbook: Declutter and Organize your Home and Life with over 100 Checklists and Worksheets
by Cassandra Aarssen
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
Living with ADHD often means struggling with organization, and Cluttered Mess to Organized Success is the perfect guide to help you declutter your life. Written by Cassandra Aarssen, a professional organizer and the creator of the popular Clutterbug blog, this workbook offers practical solutions for getting your home and life in order.
The workbook is packed with over 100 checklists, worksheets, and tips that make organizing manageable and even fun. Aarssen breaks down the process of decluttering into small, achievable steps, making it easier for those with ADHD to stay focused and motivated. Whether you’re tackling a cluttered closet or trying to create a more efficient daily routine, this workbook provides the structure and support you need to succeed.
One of the key strengths of this workbook is its flexibility. Aarssen acknowledges that everyone has different organizational styles and needs, so she offers a variety of approaches to help you find what works best for you. By providing clear instructions and plenty of visual aids, Cluttered Mess to Organized Success makes organizing accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
The 7 Minute Life Daily Planner
by Allyson Lewis
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
Time management can be a significant challenge for adults with ADHD, and The 7 Minute Life Daily Planner offers a practical solution. Created by Allyson Lewis, this planner is designed to help you focus on your most important tasks and make the most of your time, even if you only have a few minutes to spare.
The planner is built around the concept of micro-planning, breaking your day into small, manageable chunks that are easier to handle. Each day begins with a 7-minute planning session, where you prioritize your tasks and set clear goals for the day. This approach is particularly helpful for those with ADHD, as it helps you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed by long to-do lists.
In addition to daily planning pages, the planner includes sections for setting long-term goals, tracking your progress, and reflecting on your achievements. Lewis also provides tips and strategies for improving productivity and staying motivated, making this planner a valuable tool for anyone looking to boost their efficiency and stay on track.
Order from Chaos: The Everyday Grind of Staying Organized with Adult ADHD
by Jaclyn Paul
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
Order from Chaos is a practical guide to staying organized with ADHD, written by Jaclyn Paul, a blogger and adult with ADHD. Drawing on her personal experiences and years of research, Paul offers readers a realistic and compassionate approach to managing the everyday challenges of ADHD.
The book covers a wide range of topics, from creating routines and managing time to dealing with distractions and staying motivated. Paul emphasizes the importance of finding systems that work for you, rather than trying to force yourself into a rigid organizational structure. Her approach is flexible and forgiving, acknowledging that setbacks are a normal part of the process.
One of the standout features of Order from Chaos is its focus on self-compassion. Paul encourages readers to be kind to themselves as they work through their organizational challenges, offering strategies for staying motivated and avoiding burnout. By providing practical advice and emotional support, Order from Chaos helps readers create a more organized and fulfilling life, even in the face of ADHD.
Clever Fox Planner PRO – Weekly & Monthly Life Planner to Increase Productivity, Time Management and Hit Your Goals
Best Books for Adult ADHD
Summary
The Clever Fox Planner PRO is a powerful tool for managing time and increasing productivity, making it an excellent choice for adults with ADHD. This planner is designed to help you stay organized, set and achieve goals, and track your progress over time.
The planner is divided into weekly and monthly sections, allowing you to plan both short-term and long-term goals. Each week begins with a goal-setting page, where you can prioritize your tasks and set clear intentions for the week ahead. The planner also includes sections for habit tracking, gratitude journaling, and reflection, helping you stay focused and motivated.
One of the key strengths of the Clever Fox Planner PRO is its emphasis on goal-setting. The planner encourages you to set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) and provides plenty of space for breaking these goals down into actionable steps. By helping you stay organized and focused on your goals, this planner can make a significant difference in your productivity and overall well-being.
About Washington Psychological Wellness
At Washington Psychological Wellness, our therapists have extensive training, experience, and insights to treat a wide variety of ADHD-related challenges. Our therapists specialize in helping clients manage the symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), including difficulties with focus, organization, time management, and impulsivity. We understand that ADHD can affect every aspect of your life, from work and relationships to your overall well-being.
ADHD treatment at Washington Psychological Wellness often includes developing personalized strategies to enhance focus, improve organizational skills, and manage impulsive behaviors. Our treatment modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, and executive function coaching, are tailored to meet your specific needs and help you thrive in both your personal and professional life.
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