ADHD is often misunderstood as a simple "lack of attention." But in this episode of Being Well, Forrest and Dr. Rick are joined by ADHD pioneer Dr. John Ratey to explore the true nature of this complex condition. They debunk common misconceptions, explore how ADHD works in the brain, and discuss its surprising strengths and vulnerabilities. You’ll learn how to thrive with ADHD by applying effective interventions, including social connection, mindfulness practice, medication, and exercise.
About our Guest: Dr. John Ratey is associate clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the author of eleven books including Spark and the Driven to Distraction series with Dr. Ned Hallowell. Their newest book in the series is the fantastic ADHD 2.0
Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.
Key Topics:
0:00: Introduction
2:00: Some of the biggest misconceptions about ADHD
3:35: The advantages of having ADHD
5:55: De-pathologizing, skillful means, and the problem of “fit”
9:25: The variety of presentations
12:10: A trait, not a disorder
13:55: The task-positive network, and the default mode network
18:20: Three ways to turn off the default mode network
22:20: The importance of social connection
25:35: Feeling like an outsider, and being punished for having ADHD
28:45: Deliberate internalization of beneficial experiences
31:40: Why exercise and movement is particularly useful for ADHD
34:45: Dance as an ideal form of exercise
39:50: Jump rope, and right amount of exercise
41:15: Nature and the afflictions of civilization
44:25: Medication
51:15: Recap
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