Praise for Getting Ahead of ADHD: What Next-Generation Science Says about Treatments That Work- and How You Can Make Them Work for Your Child

“How can you stay abreast of the rapidly growing research base on ADHD and its treatment, when even clinical professionals can’t keep up? Simple—read this book! Dr. Nigg is a foremost clinical scientist with a talent for making complex ideas digestible. He explains what is currently known about the causes of ADHD, and, more important, offers numerous insights and recommendations for how to find the best treatment for your unique child.”

—Russell A. BarkleyPhD, ABPP, ABCN, author of Taking Charge of ADHD

“Nigg, professor of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, presents a wide-ranging and practical approach for parents facing a child’s diagnosis of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Nigg gives a detailed rundown of what scientists know about the disorder and includes a thorough chapter on the topic of epigenetics (gene expression), thereby reassuring parents that while a child may inherit a genetic “propensity” for ADHD, a variety of factors influence whether or not the condition actually appears. In separate chapters Nigg covers how food, exercise, sleep, technology use, and trauma, among other factors, relate to ADHD. With each discussion he offers action steps, provides a rundown of current scientific studies, and steers interested readers toward resources for further reading. Noting that cases can vary widely and that children can be on the “ADHD spectrum” without the full-fledged disorder, the author encourages individualized treatment plans and an “integrative approach” that considers medication along with alternative and complementary methods. Parents will find reassurance, hope, and step-by-step action plans in this coherent guide to the current and evolving science on ADHD.” (Aug.)

Publishers WeeklyPublishers Weekly

“Thank you, Dr. Nigg! As a parent of a child with ADHD, I found this book tremendously valuable as well as enjoyable to read. It condenses the best current research into practical advice. After using some of this advice, I see a noticeable reduction in my child’s irritability. I will definitely recommend this book to other parents who are looking for expert guidance.”

—Laura S., Michigan

“Dr. Nigg presents a new understanding of ADHD that reveals how both genes and environment shape the disorder. He reviews the pros and cons of diet, exercise, and other novel treatments, helping you choose among a wide range of options for your child. Misinformation about ADHD abounds—this book separates facts from fiction.”

—Stephen V. Faraone, PhDDistinguished Professor of Psychiatry and of Neuroscience and Physiology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University

“This refreshingly commonsense book is outstanding in several ways—it is timely, relevant, comprehensive, balanced, and practical.”

—L. Eugene Arnold MD, MEd,

“As a parent who has read every book on the subject, I tried everything to help my son with ADHD. I made him feel like a lab rat and wasted time, energy, and money. If I could turn back time, this one book would sit on my nightstand. It is so nice to have a vision for a bright future alongside realistic, meaningful actions we can take right now. Getting Ahead of ADHD gives me the confidence and tools I need to make wise decisions.”

Marie B., Portland