Driven to Distraction

Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder

By: Edward M. Hallowell M.D., John J. Ratey M.D.

Narrated by: Edward M. Hallowell M.D.

Length: 1 hr and 58 mins

Publisher's summary

Procrastination. Disorganization. Distractibility. Millions of adults have long considered these the hallmarks of a lack of self-discipline. But for many, these and other problems in school, at work and in social relationships are actually symptoms of an inborn neurological problem: ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder.

Through vivid stories of their patients' experiences, Drs. Hallowell and Ratey now offer a comprehensive overview of one of the most controversial psychiatric diagnoses of our day. They show the varied forms ADD takes - and the transforming impact of precise diagnosis and treatment. And, as successful professionals who are both living with ADD, they extend a message of hope and compassion to all listeners struggling with ADD in their own lives or in the lives of loved ones.

An enlightening exploration of a condition only recently identified, Driven to Distraction is a must for everyone intrigued by the workings of the human mind.

©1995 Edward M. Hallowell (P)1995 Simon & Schuster

OMG it is me!

Would you consider the audio edition of Driven to Distraction to be better than the print version?

If you have ADD audio books are great. If you know a person close that you think maybe or is already diagnosed this is a must read. I have been diagnosed by multiple professionals and teachers from childhood with everything from retardation to being Bi-Polar. They were wrong and this book leaves know doubt in my mind. A psychiatric nurse recommended this book and I can't thank her enough. This book can be life changing but the earlier diagnosed the better.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The tell stories of different individuals both children and adults; both male and female.

What does Edward M. Hallowell bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His voice inflections are perfectly matched to the subject. You feel the words.

Life changing

At 45, and years of wondering "what is wrong with me?" and seeing numerous professionals a psychiatrist recommended I read this book. Well, I chose to listen and found it life changing. I compensated all my life with lists, being super organized, keeping a schedule yet I still struggled with accomplishing things. This book, in a very simple and succinct way explained my struggle. I feel empowered to take the next steps!

EYE OPENER

This book helped me to understand myself so much more and forgive myself for errors and shortcomings that have haunted me for years. I was on ADD meds for years and don't agree with the author on any advise to take any ADD meds (stimulants or anti-depressants). The meds were torcher and did not allow me to be myself. I would suggest Montessori schools for any ADD kids. I do however agree with the authors advise to work hard to structure your days and pick someone to be your coach. You can't conquer something that you don't fully understand and this book helped me tremendously to understand my condition.
LOVED IT

Finally help I can use

Would you consider the audio edition of Driven to Distraction to be better than the print version?

I truly enjoyed the audio version because of the voice changes. Without the vocal variety, I may have missed some important points.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Driven to Distraction?

when the father threw the kid out of the house

Which scene was your favorite?

the case study on the spouse who did not suffer from ADDH

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Peeling the onion of my life

Any additional comments?

THANKS for AUDIO BOOKS

Recommended, Period.

If you could sum up Driven to Distraction in three words, what would they be?

Helpful to many.

Which scene was your favorite?

'I know you won't finish the book--that's just a part of the condition, so I am giving you key components early.' (paraphrased)

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

They mean well.

helping my

loving it, life changing and opened my eyes to realize and see I am not alone

Helpful in understanding what ADHD acutally is!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Driven to Distraction?

When I realized that the ADHD brain actually has several advantages over a non-ADHD brain.

Any additional comments?

Don't listen to the "word on the street" about what this disorder is-find out the truth!

Make Made me feel validated.

Finalllllllllllly bringing some organization to my jumbled mind. This book helps you understand what's going on in the mind of someone with ADD/ADHD. Where was this book when I was 5?
Good narration by author with injections of scientific info by a female voice that I'm convinced is Wendie Malick from many TV shows, like Just Shoot Me.
I really enjoyed the info presented in this book. I was surprised at how short it was. I really expected it to be much much longer. Just seems like a topic that has a lot of research and info available.

I DID really appreciate the many different case study examples so that we could see that people with ADD/ADHD sometimes exhibit their traits differently, but still with several relatable characteristics. Very helpful in trying to identify how this is affecting my own life.

Great and to the point

I own the printed copy of this book and I like to listen to this as a review of the pertinent information. It covers some great information though I would recommend the book if you want more background information.

My Life's Story

the narrator is in good form. the book has good content. it talks about everything in my life and it means a lot thank you.