By Penn and Kim Holderness
ADHD is not a diagnosis I treat, but it is one that is co-occuring for many of my clients. I wanted to learn more about what ADHD looks like in daily life and how it might show up in session. I wanted to find new ways of applying my treatment techniques to people who experience the world differently without causing any new frustration.
A friend recommended ADHD is Awesome and as reasearch goes, it is a fun read! If you've ever watched the Holderness YouTube videos, you are familiar with their Gen X humor. The book has the same approach.
Penn was disgnosed with ADHD as an adult and shares how his brain works in all kinds of settings. For example, one night in HS after being teased one too many times by friends, he drove his car off the road because he couldn't control the impule to stop the triggers (no one was hurt.) And when it comes to multitasking, he can't, not even a quick ten-minute jump to help out his wife (she has learned this and can now work with Penn to manage when she asks for his help.) Throughout the book, Kim adds what living with a neurotypical partner is like from her perspective, sharing tips for maintaining sanity and cutting down on arguments. There are also chapters on how ADHD devlops and what goes into diagnosing it.
The second half of the book is all about tools people with ADHD can use to thrive, including exercise, sleep, nutrition, mindfulness, and a solid support network. We all know change is hard, so the Holdernesses give tips on motivating kids as they adopt new habits, as well as ways adults can unlearn bad habits that don't work well with ADHD.
For family members, parents, and partners seeking practical advice on how to live happily with a loved one who has ADHD, this book is an excellent resource. Learn more at https://theholdernessfamily.com/adhd-is-awesome/
And for fun, check out the Holdernesses YouTube antics at: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=holderness+family
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