Yes, it makes life difficult, for sure. Lots of marriages fail when ADHD kids are in the mix. But more than likely, there's also an ADHD parent or two.

See my article, Children with ADHD and Marital Stress

                         

Women's Day Magazine did a nice job profiling a woman with ADHD (not me) and interviewed me for the story. If you're near a newsstand, pick up the November 1, 2008 copy. My quotes are in the side box. Woo woo!

                       

                          

Twenty-two of the most celebrated doctors, therapists, and coaches in the field of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) are coming together for the first time in a virtual setting. From September 22-24, 2008, people affected by AD/HD, including parents, service professionals, and AD/HD adults, will hear live presentations from experts including:

- Dr. Edward Hallowell, author of "Driven to Distraction"
- Dr. Daniel Amen, author of "Change Your Brain, Change Your Life"
- Sari Solden, MS, LMFT, author of "Journeys Through ADDulthood"

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is a condition characterized by attention inconsistencies, impulsivity, distractibility, and hyperactivity. AD/HD affects an estimated 5% of the population worldwide.

"The Virtual AD/HD Conference™ is a unique opportunity for people to get all the tools they need to succeed from top experts, without ever leaving home," says Jennifer Koretsky of the ADD Management Group, who is hosting the conference along with Terry Matlen of ADD Consults.

Adds Matlen, "Everyone can participate at their own pace and attend only the presentations that most interest them. This conference has all the benefits of an in-person conference without the travel expense and hassle."

The live presentations will delve into important topics in AD/HD, such as:

- Medication and Alternative Treatments
- Addictions and Eating Disorders
- Success Strategies for Kids, Teens & College Students
- Time Management and Organization
- Career Management
- And much more

The Virtual AD/HD Conference™ will center on an interactive, participant-only website, which means that everything attendees need to participate in the conference and connect with their peers is located in one, easy-to-use online space. Participants will have the option to listen to each presentation live via webcast or via telephone, and share their thoughts in dedicated discussion forums.

In addition, the conference will host networking sessions in live chat rooms where attendees can connect with one another. There will also be a virtual exhibit hall of AD/HD products and services. Plus, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase an audio CD set with printed transcripts of all the presentations.

The conference is open to the public. Registrations are being taken online at http://www.ADHDconference.com.

Last week, we picked up Harper, our brand new Portuguese Water Dog puppy. Not having had a puppy in nearly 15 years, I'd forgotten how much work is involved. Trying to avoid accidents has been a 24/7 job and has pretty much stopped everything else to a dead halt. I'm waaay behind in my work.

I love Harper and am learning more about myself in the process of taking care of her.

For instance, I finally met my neighbors that live 3 doors away from me. I thought they'd moved in a few years ago, but when I took Harper for a walk the other day, we officially met and I was told they'd been living here 10 years or so. Talk about being embarrassed!

So, if you're a shy type and would like to meet new people, including your own neighbors, I highly recommend you get a puppy and just start...walking.

I've met some really nice people that way and what a great way to expand your social connections!

Oh geez. It happened again.

I was up at our little lake house in Canada for the weekend and met our new neighbors, John and...and...Mary Ann. Or was it Ann Marie.

I tried, I really did, to remember their names when we introduced ourselves. I got the John part, but not the Mrs. John part.

I"ve written before how double names always mess me up because for the life of me, I cannot remember them. Was it Ruth Ann? Or LeeAnne? Kathy Lee? Or Kathy Lynn?

Guess I'll have to swallow my pride and ask her. And ask her again.

Make it a better world for you, me and everyone. Free tips via email by clicking HERE.

Wish I could remember where I read this, as I sure didn't come up with it. But it's simple and right on:

The difference between inattentive ADHD and those who are primarily hyperactive:

• Inattentives can't start
• Hyperactives can't stop

Or something like that...!

My friend and colleague, Jennifer Koretsky, has done it again. Check out this incredible program and then tell her I sent you! More info HERE.

       

Now You Can Create a Personal, ADD-Friendly
Time Management System in Just 4 Weeks!

                  

Master the Art of Time Management teaches adults with ADD how to create a personal time management system that works with ADD--not against it. You'll take control of your time and tasks...in just 4 weeks!

In this step-by-step guide that is proven to work for adults with ADD, you'll build a time management system specifically for YOU and your ADD. Once piece at a time, you'll:

• Custom-create a to-do list that works

• Develop a daily planning routine

• Put your time management tools to work efficiently and effectively

• Determine your "pillars of structure" and plan around them

• Develop structure based on your natural biorhythms and energy levels

Use a secret, ADD-friendly trick for getting things done

...and much more.

Check it out HERE.

                        

It’s been two weeks and only now can I bring myself to write about the loss of my beloved dog, Annie. It’s hard to describe to non- pet owners how a dog or cat can be loved as much as a family member and how deeply their death can affect us.

I also think that when you have special challenges, whether it’s ADHD, anxiety, depression, or whatever…that the relationship you have with your pet takes on more significance. Our vulnerabilities often kick in the minute we leave the house, as we face classmates, co-workers and bosses. We often struggle with self doubt, insecurity, low self esteem and more. Yet when we return home, a snuggly wet kiss from our pet can make us feel whole again. No scrutiny, no judgments. We are loved, no questions asked.

In my case, Annie was the rock that steadied me as I navigated the daily challenges of raising a child with special needs. When the house became too crazed by hyperactivity, moodiness, temper tantrums, frustrations with the school… I knew I could briefly isolate myself in another room with Annie or take a break outside with her to catch my breath.

She was totally predictable in my unpredictable day to day life. When I’d leave the house, she’d wait- for hours- sitting on the couch and staring out the window for my anticipated arrival. I’d be greeted at the side door by Annie, with a shoe or phone in her mouth- her “gift” to me.

She’d only eat when I’d eat. I swear this is true. I’d sit down for a meal knowing I’d only have to get back up to fill her bowl; she’d watch me, then bark the minute I’d sit down. Annie, therefore, insisted on eating three meals a day.

Always by my side- at my feet- Annie was an extension of my body. Not having her here now is like having lost an arm or leg.

So I am dedicating this blog in her memory. Thank you, Annie, for 14 years of devoted companionship. Ok, well…12. Your first two years were total insanity. If a dog could have ADHD, you’d be the poster pup. You were also ODD (oppositional defiant), OCD (everything had to be just a certain way). You had issues with food- it took months before I found a kibble you’d accept happily. You were also extremely jealous. Though friendly- overly friendly at times- if anyone came too close to me, you’d stare at them with dagger eyes. You had separation anxiety, too. When I was out of town, you barely ate and wouldn’t leave your station on the couch, watching for me. You also were passive/aggressive. As much as you wanted me back home, you’d also punish me for leaving by knocking all the phones off the hook. Every day, without fail. And when you became too weak to get to every room that housed a phone, you still found the energy to whack the one in my office.

You succeeded in breaking my heart two weeks ago, when that tumor gripped your heart, forcing me to make a decision that all pet owners dread.

I miss you Annie.  

Continue reading "Ode to Annie"

                                 

Sometimes I find products that I just want to share with others who, like me, are always looking for ways to become more organized. This web-based program does so many things but basically, it helps you to get things done, especially when you're collaborating with others.

Check it out here.

So, how cool is this? Instead of writing reminders all over your hands- you know.. your shopping list,  telephone numbers or other tidbits, just use these instead. Makes me wonder if someone with ADHD dreamed this one up.

Check it out HERE

                      Coming This September 22, 23, 24             

                             

Whether you live in Ohio or California, Japan or France...anyone and everyone who would like to hear the top ADHD experts in the world will be able to do so, simply by dialing a telephone number- no need to jump on a plane, pay for a hotel, cabs, food or babysitters. I've partnered with Jennifer Koretsky of The ADD Management Group and we will be sponsoring the world's first annual International Virtual ADHD Conference

Hold on to your seats because these top ADHD authors, experts and presenters are all lined up and are excited to share with you the latest information, resources and tips on living with ADHD...all in the comfort of your own home or office. You can't beat the convenience and savings!

Our experts include:

Dr. Ned Hallowell   Sari Solden   Dr. John Ratey   Dr. Daniel Amen   Dr. Patricia Quinn   Wilma Fellman   Dr. Michele Novotni    Wendy Richardson   Dr. Thomas Phelan   and many more.

Learn about ADD and Addictions, Girls and Women with ADHD, ADHD Medications,  ADHD and Anxiety, Decluttering and Getting Organized, Social Skills, Time Management...and lots more. PLUS, you'll be able to network with others- folks just like you- who are learning how to live more successfully with ADHD. Sessions will cover topics on adults and children and will be of interest to parents, adults with ADHD, professionals, educators, coaches and anyone wanting to learn more about how ADHD affects you and the important people in your life.

There's lots more to share and our website isn't quite ready, but watch for upcoming announcements so you can be the first to get the full scoop.

                                   

Need help with your or your child's ADHD? I'm available for online consultations.

                               Online Consultations with Terry: Click HERE

                      

Years ago, I found myself in a conversation with a mom whose husband and two high schoolers had ADHD. This woman, a professional working part time in a highly competitive medical field, obviously had her hands full, keeping on top of things. Yet, when she spoke of her daily challenges, she had a smile on her face. I asked her how she was able to juggle all these things without having a nervous breakdown and she said simply, "I take a vacation ever couple of months to re-charge."

Now, I don't know of many people who can afford the luxury of going on vacation that frequently, so I quizzed her about how she did this. Her response made a lasting impression on me.

 She explained that in order to take care of her family, she had to first take care of herself. So...every couple of months, she booked a room at a local hotel, which happened to be connected to a large mall. Since she always "vacationed" on a weekend, her husband was able to take over the parenting duties in her absence.

Read more HERE

                                

It became another family joke- me searching high and low for my sunglasses, while my youngest daughter is staring at me, her eyes dancing, just waiting for the right time to inform me that they are sitting on my head. Of course, she played it out like a pro, waiting till I had torn apart my car, checked all the kitchen drawers, and ran up and down the stairs, cursing like a madwoman. It wouldn't have become a treasured family story had she told me right away when I'd asked her if she'd seen them. No...

They say that with age comes wisdom, and I think that may be true to some extent. Since being diagnosed with ADHD nearly 15 years ago, and having worked in the field for over a decade, I've learned a few tricks over the years.

Read more HERE