Scattered Minds

As a woman who struggles with ADHD this book was so eye-opening. To understand that while there is a genetic predisposition to this condition environment and attachment play a role in this as well. Which makes so much sense looking back at my formative years.

I also appreciated his insight on medication and how care should be given when prescribing medication. That it's not a magical solution for ADHD but part of a comprehensive and integrative approach to treatment.

I was also encouraged to know that much of what I've been prioritizing the past few years addressing my past trauma, emotional dysfunction and becoming more self-aware and accepting of myself are key tools in helping to heal and manage symptoms in adulthood. So, I'm on the right track!

I find his theories lean a little too far on the environment side of the "nature vs nurture" debate. His background in trauma and addiction really shows through but altogether its not a terrible book and we are constantly learning more about ADHD. I would read with a critical lens and with the understanding that this book is not based on the authors experimental research but rather his experience as a medical doctor.

I'm familiar Maté's more recent work on addiction and the myth of normality, but was so happy to realize this older but still so useful book existed. Attachment and its related interpersonal sequelae are my main ways of viewing/conceptualizing the clinical work I do, so his attachment/attunement-based perspective on ADHD was just a breath of fresh air. It's maddening, however, to realize how non-mainstream his perspective still is. Anyway, this is a great book for clinicians, people with ADHD, and people who love people with ADHD (I fit in both the first and third categories). Maté is wise, COMPASSIONATE, and always aware of how the way we view “problems” can also circumscribe our solutions. Will definitely read more of his book-length work based on this one.

My son was diagnosed with ADD and this book helped me to understand him a lot better.
It's written in 90s but still relevant. He has a very unique and generalized opinion about the reasons behind ADD.
The chapters about healing are very insightful and helpful.