ADHD 2.0: New Science and Essential Strategies for Thriving with Distraction—From Childhood Through Adulthood

Hallowell and Ratey address the widespread stigmas surrounding ADHD medication, and they argue that medication—when prescribed and taken appropriately—is an important facet of ADHD management, noting that “nothing gives you the bang for your buck that medication can” (107). They argue that the decision of whether to take medication should be based on observable scientific evidence, asserting that studies show several medications to be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. People who disparage medication, the authors argue, might not understand the extent of suffering that could be reversed with medication and fail to acknowledge the prevalence of self-medication with substances like coffee and energy drinks, which are not controlled and may have unintended consequences.

The authors discuss when an individual should consider medication, as many people prefer trying non-medical interventions first. They suggest people should want their medication, which can bolster efficacy by capitalizing on the placebo effect, where the mind expects a certain result, and the body responds. To exemplify this phenomenon, the authors discuss a man named Dan whose grandson Steven was diagnosed with ADHD after struggling at home and at school. Steven’s parents did not provide Steven with structure, and they refused the recommended medication. Hallowell and Ratey stress the importance of creating structure for children with ADHD, advising Dan to encourage Steven’s parents to keep Steven active and to reconsider medication.