Robert Jergen writes two books a year, works on several research projects simultaneously and, after finishing a PhD in half the normal time, began a successful teaching career. It takes a special person with special skills to complete such a heavy load, but one would never guess the secret to Jergen’s success.
“I have ADHD,” says Jergen.
Great article. Sound’s like he’s gone through hell, very destructive as a child, 2 suicide attempts etc.
His turn around was visiting an adult ADD support group where he finally realized he had it.
Jergen is not against medication, and he openly agrees that it can help one focus. “But medications do not teach people to learn, do math or act appropriately,” he says.
So, he reminds parents and teachers that one will not just “get better” with medication and advocates behavior therapy to help a person with ADHD learn the organizational and social skills they may not have learned as a child.
I agree, ADD medications can be very useful but they are only part of the treatment. The best way to treat ADD is by using a variety of methods. ADD Coaching, therapy, ADD medication, ADD support groups, diet, exercise, meditation, ADD books and websites. The more options you have the better. You don’t need to do them all at once though:)
Don’t repress ADHD, utilize it,” says Jergen. “ADHD is A-OK.
He wrote a book on his experiences with ADD called The Little Monster: Growing Up With ADHD.
Anyone who’s read it care to share their thoughts on it?
Wow! It is nice to see people interested in my work and my perspective of ADHD! Thank you very much for including my book here! I really want to get the word out that ADHD can be a wonderful gift!
As for me putting you (Gerard) to shame… not at all. We all shine on, as Lennon used to say. If you read the book you will understand this better, but basically, I was miserable for so long. Then one day I thought that I had cancer. It really put my life in perspective and how little time I have to waste. I kicked my butt into gear and began utilizing my “hyperactivity” as “hyperproductivity.”
At any rate, if I can do it… any little monster can! There is nothing special or remarkable about me.
If anybody out there actually reads my book, please let me know. Being a writer is much like being a parent or teacher… you never really know if you are making a difference.
Also, rather than buying my book (off of which I don’t make any money) please ask your local libraries to get it. That way more people can read it and you don’t have to pay.
Thanks again for talking about The Little Monster. I hope that it helps somebody out there!
I wouldn’t say to shame Gerard, but it’s always good to reevaluate our lives.
I like the hyperproductivity word Robert, great reframing. The more books out there on ADD the better, especially the personal sort. It puts a human face on the condition.
Pete