Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder Paperback – February 7, 2023

I picked up Gabor Maté's "Scattered Minds" in an attempt to better understand some of my kids' behaviors, but what I found was so much more profound and personal. This book, filled with incredible empathy and deep insights, is a beacon for anyone navigating the complex world of ADD.From the very first page, I felt as though Dr. Maté was speaking directly to me. His compassionate voice and genuine understanding of ADD created an atmosphere where I felt truly seen and understood, possibly for the first time. His explanations about the roots and manifestations of ADD are not just educational but also deeply validating.Maté's approach is incredibly human. He doesn't just look at ADD through a clinical lens but explores the emotional and psychological landscapes that accompany it. The stories he shares, both from his patients and his own life, are woven with such warmth and empathy that they resonate on a deeply personal level.As I delved deeper into the book, I found myself reflecting on my own behaviors and experiences. It was a revelation to see myself in the pages, realizing that I, too, might be on the ADD spectrum in a mild form. This realization was both liberating and comforting. For years, I had brushed off certain struggles and idiosyncrasies as just quirks, but Maté's insightful exploration gave them a name and, more importantly, a context.The way Dr. Maté connects childhood experiences with adult behavior patterns is both enlightening and empowering. His empathetic approach allows readers to forgive themselves and their loved ones, fostering a sense of understanding and compassion that is truly healing. I found myself thinking about my kids (and myself) in a new light, with a deeper appreciation for their unique challenges and strengths.Because of this, it took me more than 4 months to finish this book. I had to really think it through and let myself internalize his findings. I highlighted so much on my Kindle that I hit the content-sharing limit – the first time in 12 years of Kindle reading! This speaks volumes about how impactful "Scattered Minds" is. It is more than just a book about ADD; it's a journey into understanding the human condition. Dr. Maté's incredible empathy and profound insights make this book a must-read for anyone looking to understand themselves or their loved ones better. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or someone who suspects they might have ADD, this book will change your life. It certainly changed mine.In summary, "Scattered Minds" is a masterpiece of empathy, wisdom, and humanity. It's a book that doesn't just inform, but transforms. Thank you, Dr. Maté, for helping me see myself and my kids through a lens of compassion and understanding. This book is a gift to anyone who picks it up.

Excellent detail on the true story of ADD and impact on life.Dr. Gabor Mate is a renowned speaker and author, but to be honest, it is difficult for me to listen to him speak. His content is wonderful but his delivery is not smooth and some of the most important words are lost. However.... this book and his others are so helpful and his expertise is evident.I am a behavioral health provider, and this book is helpful with students, teachers, physicians, adults with ADD, and anyone that comes in contact with them. I first read this book about 4 years ago, and I keep having to replace it as I give it away or loan it.

Gabor Mate is one of my favorite people in the world...just have to say. As an MD who has personally struggled with ADD, he helped me understand the challenges faced by my grandson who suffers and sometimes benefits from Attention Deficit Disorder (it's a mixed bag). Ironically, it sensitized me to the origins and causes of my grandson's sensitivity which led me to my wife's likely undiagnosed ADD (this is a second marriage for both of us and my grandson is not genetically related to me). Particularly intriguing to me is the function of dopamine in ADD and how Ritalin, though perhaps necessary in certain circumstances, may be avoided by employing what may be called "environmental solutions."

There are a few things in this book that feel utterly dated (it was written 20+ years ago), but other than that, it’s been an important book for understanding my own ADHD journey in adulthood.It helps connect habits to genetics and habitat while ensuring the information about how and why ADHD people are the way they are is respectful and logical.Very easy to digest and I highly recommend this book for adult learning about their own ADHD and for parents especially with children or adult children with ADHD.

Bought this to read because I'm studying behavioral psychology. The first chapter was full of gasps, sighs, and me texting excerpts to people with the caption: Me!! The first step. Wonderfully written. Big fan of Dr. Maté's compassion.

This was insightful and helpful to shift perspective on supporting those with ADHD. Definitely keeping on hand to reference. I wish all parents with ADHDers and school staff would read this book!

I learned a tremendous amount and gained insight that I could use to help my issues with add.

Bravo, Dr. Mate. This is an exceptional book on attention deficit disorder. A must read if you are expecting a child or have a young or adult child with ADD. Reading this book made me feel as if Dr. Mate knew us personally. I wish this book had been available when my child was an infant and adolescent. Reading Dr. Mate’s sections on adult ADD helped me understand and appreciate my adult ADD child even more. I’m sure that I did not apply many of Dr. Mate’s recommendations during my child’s adolescence but my love for him was always first and foremost. So grateful that my child grew up to become an intelligent, successful, kind and loving adult, in spite of our shortcomings.