Recommended Reading
These are the books and organizations I recommend for understanding how your brain works and how it shapes the way you build.
Each one earned its place here.
The list starts with ADHD in women, and I'll add OCD and high sensitivity as I find ones worth your time.
A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD by Sari Solden and Michelle Frank - A guide for women to the shame and self-doubt that can build up around ADHD, with practical ways to embrace how your brain works and move past old barriers.
Women with Attention Deficit Disorder by Sari Solden - When it was first published in 1995, it was the first book to focus on the challenges women with ADHD face.
The Queen of Distraction by Terry Matlen - Practical strategies written for women with ADHD, covering home, work, relationships and hormones.
ADHD for Smart Ass Women by Tracy Otsuka - As the subtitle says, it's about learning how to fall in love with your neurodivergent brain.
How to ADHD by Jessica McCabe - An insider's guide to working with your brain instead of against it, from the creator of the How to ADHD YouTube channel.
Taking Charge of Adult ADHD (Second Edition) by Russell A. Barkley with Christine M. Benton - Research-based strategies for daily life and work, from a longtime ADHD researcher.
ADHD 2.0 by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey - Newer science and practical strategies from the authors of Driven to Distraction.
Fast Minds by Craig Surman and Tim Bilkey, with Karen Weintraub - Written for adults who have ADHD or think they might, which makes it a good next step if you're still wondering.
CHADD - A U.S. nonprofit with free information on adult ADHD, including who can evaluate you and virtual support groups for adults.
ADDA, the Attention Deficit Disorder Association - A nonprofit for adults with ADHD that runs online support groups for its members.
ADDitude - A magazine and website with free articles on ADHD, including many on women and ADHD.
The ASRS v1.1 Screener - The free adult ADHD screener developed with the World Health Organization. Take it, then bring your answers to a licensed provider.
If a decision is spinning right now, start with the free Chaos to Clarity Checklist.
Book links go to Bookshop.org, which supports independent bookstores.
Everything here is for education, not medical advice. If you think you may have ADHD, talk with a licensed provider.