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Invisible ADHD: Proven Mood and Life Management for Smart Yet Scattered Women
INSTANT USA TODAY BESTSELLER • NATIONAL BESTSELLER
An essential and empowering guide for women who struggle–often silently and alone–with the challenges of ADHD
ADHD in women is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or entirely overlooked, leaving millions silently fighting an internal, invisible battle. Outwardly, you might be labeled flaky, intense, dramatic, or unreliable, while inwardly you’re juggling severe overwhelm, emotional chaos, chronic stress, catastrophic thinking, and the unshakable feeling of being misunderstood by everyone.
In Invisible ADHD, Shanna Pearson, founder and director of the world’s largest one-on-one ADHD-coaching company, shares what actually works for women in real life. Drawing on insights from hundreds of thousands of coaching sessions over two decades and her own turbulent ADHD journey, she reveals the strategies and solutions that have transformed thousands of lives.
Pearson uncovers the lesser-known causes behind our most difficult ADHD behaviors and shows us how to do things more easily in ways that work with our remarkable brains. With compelling client stories, relatable language, and more than one hundred proven tools, Invisible ADHD tackles the many challenges women face while providing a clear, inspirational, easy-to-follow roadmap to get unstuck, finally trust yourself, and improve every area of your life.
For every woman who feels overwhelmed, scattered, or unseen—and for those who love and support them—Invisible ADHD is a game-changing must-read.
An essential and empowering guide for women who struggle–often silently and alone–with the challenges of ADHD
ADHD in women is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or entirely overlooked, leaving millions silently fighting an internal, invisible battle. Outwardly, you might be labeled flaky, intense, dramatic, or unreliable, while inwardly you’re juggling severe overwhelm, emotional chaos, chronic stress, catastrophic thinking, and the unshakable feeling of being misunderstood by everyone.
In Invisible ADHD, Shanna Pearson, founder and director of the world’s largest one-on-one ADHD-coaching company, shares what actually works for women in real life. Drawing on insights from hundreds of thousands of coaching sessions over two decades and her own turbulent ADHD journey, she reveals the strategies and solutions that have transformed thousands of lives.
Pearson uncovers the lesser-known causes behind our most difficult ADHD behaviors and shows us how to do things more easily in ways that work with our remarkable brains. With compelling client stories, relatable language, and more than one hundred proven tools, Invisible ADHD tackles the many challenges women face while providing a clear, inspirational, easy-to-follow roadmap to get unstuck, finally trust yourself, and improve every area of your life.
For every woman who feels overwhelmed, scattered, or unseen—and for those who love and support them—Invisible ADHD is a game-changing must-read.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published September 9, 2025
172 people are currently reading
11010 people want to read
About the author
Shanna Pearson
1 book29 followersShanna Pearson is the founder, program creator, coach trainer and coaching director of Expert ADHD Coaching, which provides concierge one-on-one personalized, action-based ADHD coaching for adults and is the largest ADHD coaching program of its kind in the world. Since 1999 she has been privileged to serve tens of thousands of clients and train hundreds of coaches.
She writes from the perspective and knowledge of what actually works in the real life of adults with ADHD, based on deep experience with over 500,000 individual coaching sessions over more than two decades, and a lifetime of mastering her own severe ADHD.
Shanna has leapt from planes, snorkeled in a school of two hundred whale sharks, walked across an entire country (more than one, actually), SCUBA dives, loves to hike up mountains, invents new ways to help people help themselves, has presented from many stages, practices karate, loves amusement parks, her family and her family's history, is a great mom (according to her kids, most of the time) and wouldn't change a thing.
Shanna can be found online at Expert ADHD Coaching.
She writes from the perspective and knowledge of what actually works in the real life of adults with ADHD, based on deep experience with over 500,000 individual coaching sessions over more than two decades, and a lifetime of mastering her own severe ADHD.
Shanna has leapt from planes, snorkeled in a school of two hundred whale sharks, walked across an entire country (more than one, actually), SCUBA dives, loves to hike up mountains, invents new ways to help people help themselves, has presented from many stages, practices karate, loves amusement parks, her family and her family's history, is a great mom (according to her kids, most of the time) and wouldn't change a thing.
Shanna can be found online at Expert ADHD Coaching.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
August 8, 2025
As a therapist and woman with ADHD, this book was so solid. There were a lot of techniques I already use and share with my clients, but there were some great ones I could incorporate into my therapy sessions for clients who are just starting out. Would recommend!
August 13, 2025
This was an extremely informative guide. I loved the writing style, how the information was presented and how practical each section was.
I am sure I will benefit from this book for years to come!
Thank you to FlatIron books for the opportunity to read this.
I am sure I will benefit from this book for years to come!
Thank you to FlatIron books for the opportunity to read this.
August 7, 2025
Honestly the BEST book on ADHD management I have ever read- and I've read quite a few. It felt like Shanna Pearson knew me and my entire life story- I've truly never felt so 'gotten' in my life. The tools and exercises that she shares are quite do-able, and the ones that I've tried so far in my own life, have been surprisingly effective! The author's light-hearted, super readable style makes this such a fun read. It's perfect in my opinion and overall I'm happy this book is out there.
September 25, 2025
One of the most useful books I have read about ADHD, with actual techniques to help you manage the struggles of life. Highly recommend.
August 26, 2025
The opening pages of this book pulled me in instantly! The author begins with her own experience of “daydreaming” as a child, (completely relatable) then weaves in the voices of others with ADHD along with a wealth of practical tools and strategies. Shanna Pearson has written a book that is inspiring, motivating AND extremely useful. It's perfect for anyone who even thinks they might have undiagnosed ADHD.
August 27, 2025
Shanna's book is incisive, but funny.
SO very funny, making it such an easy read.
She doesnt sugar coat the real struggles that we face with an ADHD brain and her analogies are on the mark.
She poignantly reminds us that; anticipating failure is like having an insurance policy against disappointment.
That hit close to home!!
She then shows you how to break these cycles, have hope again, and move forward.
Actionable steps to get UNSTUCK!!
Her solutions are simple to understand and implement.
I loved the section on strategies to counter those self-doubts and other obstacles that keep us from achieving our goals.
It's a perfect addition to your library, that you can keep going back to day after day, month after month.
Like a staple in my pantry that I can use everyday. It's better than any self help book, because it's all about ME.
SO very funny, making it such an easy read.
She doesnt sugar coat the real struggles that we face with an ADHD brain and her analogies are on the mark.
She poignantly reminds us that; anticipating failure is like having an insurance policy against disappointment.
That hit close to home!!
She then shows you how to break these cycles, have hope again, and move forward.
Actionable steps to get UNSTUCK!!
Her solutions are simple to understand and implement.
I loved the section on strategies to counter those self-doubts and other obstacles that keep us from achieving our goals.
It's a perfect addition to your library, that you can keep going back to day after day, month after month.
Like a staple in my pantry that I can use everyday. It's better than any self help book, because it's all about ME.
September 5, 2025
Not your typical self-help book! Shanna Pearson succeeds in giving a detailed, yet brief, overview of ADHD, including scientific explanations, methods for diagnosis, and tactics to tackle what feels impossible. Most importantly, she gives readers motivation to keep moving forward.
This book is for anyone who:
1. Is struggling to find a diagnosis and looking for answers
2. Has ADHD
3. Knows someone with ADHD
4. Is curious about knowing more about ADHD in women
The 👍:
- hopeful and Validates women
- Structured in an ADHD friendly format (like wow- author even says what info you can skip and come back to later)
- Discusses how other diagnoses can mask as ADHD
- Utilized multiple explanation techniques to keep reader’s attention
- Accounts for monthly hormones
A necessary book, helping bridge the gap in a vast field.
Thanks for reading,
🍄 ⓑⓡⓘⓢⓑⓞⓞⓚⓑⓐⓖ 🍄
This book is for anyone who:
1. Is struggling to find a diagnosis and looking for answers
2. Has ADHD
3. Knows someone with ADHD
4. Is curious about knowing more about ADHD in women
The 👍:
- hopeful and Validates women
- Structured in an ADHD friendly format (like wow- author even says what info you can skip and come back to later)
- Discusses how other diagnoses can mask as ADHD
- Utilized multiple explanation techniques to keep reader’s attention
- Accounts for monthly hormones
A necessary book, helping bridge the gap in a vast field.
Thanks for reading,
🍄 ⓑⓡⓘⓢⓑⓞⓞⓚⓑⓐⓖ 🍄
September 25, 2025
I received this book as an ARC through libro.fm. I was surprised with how much I resonated with what the author wrote. It reminded me how a few years ago when I got my hearing tested, they asked me if I had ADHD. I was flabbergasted & never followed up on that information. When I finished the book, I had my family listen to a section without telling them what it was about and they said, “That’s you!” Now I want to go buy a printed copy of the book and go over it with a more critical eye while reflecting on myself.
September 8, 2025
These strategies hit hard and actually work! Shanna nails it! Her understanding of the ADHD brain is next-level, and the book makes you feel like she totally gets you!
Her strategies are realistic, easy to follow, and immediately useful. Whether you have ADHD or are trying to understand someone who does, this book is eye-opening.
There’s truly NOTHING else like this out there!
Her strategies are realistic, easy to follow, and immediately useful. Whether you have ADHD or are trying to understand someone who does, this book is eye-opening.
There’s truly NOTHING else like this out there!
September 30, 2025
Living with ADHD is typically overwhelming and exhausting - having a brain that thrives on only its preferred kinds of stimulus and working with it rather than against it isn't something we usually learn naturally. It often takes external advice, structure, and trial-and-error on *both* medication and techniques for coping. Invisible ADHD is written and narrated by Shanna Pearson, a woman who was diagnosed later in life (as so many are) with ADHD and started a coaching practice to help other women. Neurodivergent women (and those who love us) are the target audience, but I can imagine this book containing helpful techniques for ADHD mastery for anyone.
As someone who was diagnosed with ADHD fairly young for a woman, some of these are things I learned working with a psychologist as a youth and that I already incorporated into my daily life. EVEN STILL, the external reminder of a conscious framework are really helpful. I learned some new tricks and tips that I plan to incorporate into my daily routines.
Pearson emphasizes that ADHD - and the methods we use to work with it - are not one size fits all. While this can be frustrating to the brain that gets easily distracted, years of coaching clients has helped her develop a range of techniques and also strategies to help someone feel less overwhelmed by needing to try things over and over. "Gamefication" (but NOT using an app!), writing with your non-dominant hand to encourage you to focus, and setting SMALL timers (just try 2 minutes!) to get your brain invested are all useful tools.
Shanna Pearson narrates the audiobook herself, which lends a more personal touch. She uses repetitive phrases, and reinforces concepts by saying "I am going to repeat this because it's important." As someone who learns by listening, I found this incredibly helpful. In the sections of the book that require action, another narrative voice says "do this" to trigger a different level of listening and focus. It's clearly narrated with the ADHD-er in mind. Having listened once, I also acquired a copy in ebook to have for reference instead of needing to constantly loop back in the audio.
Thank you to MacMillan Audio for an ALC. Invisible ADHD is available now.
As someone who was diagnosed with ADHD fairly young for a woman, some of these are things I learned working with a psychologist as a youth and that I already incorporated into my daily life. EVEN STILL, the external reminder of a conscious framework are really helpful. I learned some new tricks and tips that I plan to incorporate into my daily routines.
Pearson emphasizes that ADHD - and the methods we use to work with it - are not one size fits all. While this can be frustrating to the brain that gets easily distracted, years of coaching clients has helped her develop a range of techniques and also strategies to help someone feel less overwhelmed by needing to try things over and over. "Gamefication" (but NOT using an app!), writing with your non-dominant hand to encourage you to focus, and setting SMALL timers (just try 2 minutes!) to get your brain invested are all useful tools.
Shanna Pearson narrates the audiobook herself, which lends a more personal touch. She uses repetitive phrases, and reinforces concepts by saying "I am going to repeat this because it's important." As someone who learns by listening, I found this incredibly helpful. In the sections of the book that require action, another narrative voice says "do this" to trigger a different level of listening and focus. It's clearly narrated with the ADHD-er in mind. Having listened once, I also acquired a copy in ebook to have for reference instead of needing to constantly loop back in the audio.
Thank you to MacMillan Audio for an ALC. Invisible ADHD is available now.
August 31, 2025
I was one of those insufferably dismissive types who came to compassion and understanding for ADHD much later in life. Despite having had a husband with it and then a daughter diagnosed in middle school, I (regrettably) was ignorant and resistant to taking it seriously. It wasn’t until many years later, when I began to suspect it in myself, that I started to learn and truly get educated.
I’m here to say that, after all I’ve read and listened to, this book by Shanna Pearson is exactly what’s been missing among the plethora of mediocre choices. If you only want to buy one truly helpful book about ADHD, this is it. Invisible ADHD is comprehensive, well thought-out, accessible, practical, educational, and perhaps most importantly—ADHD-friendly.
Yes, it’s written for women, and that has been so desperately needed, but men will learn just as much about themselves in these pages. I’ll be gifting this book to everyone I know with ADHD!
Hyperfocusers—beware! This book will demand your attention. :)
P.S. The fact that world-renowned ADHD expert Dr. Daniel Amen wrote the Foreword should tell you a lot about this book’s credibility.
I’m here to say that, after all I’ve read and listened to, this book by Shanna Pearson is exactly what’s been missing among the plethora of mediocre choices. If you only want to buy one truly helpful book about ADHD, this is it. Invisible ADHD is comprehensive, well thought-out, accessible, practical, educational, and perhaps most importantly—ADHD-friendly.
Yes, it’s written for women, and that has been so desperately needed, but men will learn just as much about themselves in these pages. I’ll be gifting this book to everyone I know with ADHD!
Hyperfocusers—beware! This book will demand your attention. :)
P.S. The fact that world-renowned ADHD expert Dr. Daniel Amen wrote the Foreword should tell you a lot about this book’s credibility.
September 25, 2025
Invisible ADHD is an extremely informative guide. It’s a friendly, no-nonsense guide that genuinely understands the daily quirks of living with ADHD. It might be the strongest book on ADHD management I’ve come across, and I’ve checked a fair number. The author seems to peek into real life and say, yes, that’s exactly how it feels, which makes the advice land with real human warmth. The tools are workable, and the ones I’ve tried have actually helped in practical ways. The tone stays light and conversational, so it never feels preachy or boring. All in all, it feels like a sturdy, dependable friend you’re glad exists, and I’m sure I’ll benefit from this book for years to come!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. #NetGalley #arcreview #InvisibleADHD
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. #NetGalley #arcreview #InvisibleADHD
September 10, 2025
I have read several books on ADHD and specifically ADHD for women and this is the first book I felt truly seen. It was so very raw and relatable. Not packed with just stories or science but both with real life stuff. Like listening to your friend explain, give tips, and support. So many tangible and actionable tips to navigate and thrive. The BEST book I’ve read on this topic. Hands down. Have a notebook or something as you read this to make and take action steps!!
I was given this advanced audio book to review with my own opinion. All views are met own. And I loved it so much I already ordered the hardcover so I can re read and highlight/note take. Thank you @Macmillan.Audio
I was given this advanced audio book to review with my own opinion. All views are met own. And I loved it so much I already ordered the hardcover so I can re read and highlight/note take. Thank you @Macmillan.Audio
September 3, 2025
I LOVE this book and the writing style! This book is a breath of fresh air! I feel like I’m in a conversation with Shanna and she’s talking directly to me – and it feels like she really “gets me”. This book is engaging from the very beginning, and it’s funny, vulnerable, and extremely helpful! I can’t recommend this book enough!!
September 5, 2025
Easy to read, interactive and with helpful Tools. The layout and format works well to follow for the ADHD brain. It feels like Shanna is speaking directly to you.
Even though it is designed for women, this is a great read for anyone whether you have ADHD or not. It gives some great insight on what it is like, especially if you don't have ADHD.
Highly recommend!
Even though it is designed for women, this is a great read for anyone whether you have ADHD or not. It gives some great insight on what it is like, especially if you don't have ADHD.
Highly recommend!
September 7, 2025
Wow what a fast read! Even though this book is targeted for women I found the strategies and management tools to apply to me or any man! Getting out of your head and into your body is such an important concept to help refocus my brain. The author is extremely relatable and I found myself laughing about some of our shared experiences. A must read!
September 6, 2025
This book will be a classic read for people dealing with ADHD. As an ADHD coach for over 8 years it applies as much to men as it does for women! You will have a difficult time putting the book down!
September 10, 2025
I just got this yesterday and can't put it down. Very enlightening motivating and some parts are really profound while still managing to be light and readable.
October 10, 2025
This is my first book review here, and this book absolutely deserves it. It’s a treasure!
There are so many bestselling books today built entirely around one single theory or tool, and then padded to make you buy into the one idea. Invisible ADHD by Shanna Pearson is completely different. She introduces so many amazing strategies I lost count, but there were many that have truly Never been seen before- by anyone, because she created them herself! (I couldn't find them anywhere else either). I’ve been in therapy for most of my life (it seems) and have read countless ADHD books, and I can say with confidence that there are phenomenal tools in this book that are unlike anything else out there!
Most importantly, Pearson’s strategies work. I’ve tried them over the past month, and they’re already making a huge difference- not just to me, but also to my 23 year old daughter who was also diagnosed with ADHD. Any reviewer who claims they’ve “seen this all before” simply hasn’t read this book in its entirety.
This is a golden resource that every person with ADHD should read cover to cover.
There are so many bestselling books today built entirely around one single theory or tool, and then padded to make you buy into the one idea. Invisible ADHD by Shanna Pearson is completely different. She introduces so many amazing strategies I lost count, but there were many that have truly Never been seen before- by anyone, because she created them herself! (I couldn't find them anywhere else either). I’ve been in therapy for most of my life (it seems) and have read countless ADHD books, and I can say with confidence that there are phenomenal tools in this book that are unlike anything else out there!
Most importantly, Pearson’s strategies work. I’ve tried them over the past month, and they’re already making a huge difference- not just to me, but also to my 23 year old daughter who was also diagnosed with ADHD. Any reviewer who claims they’ve “seen this all before” simply hasn’t read this book in its entirety.
This is a golden resource that every person with ADHD should read cover to cover.
September 10, 2025
This. Is. What. I. Needed.
September 12, 2025
Loving it so far!!!
September 15, 2025
So much good information. If you are a woman with adhd or love a woman with adhd you should read this book. I only wished I had this book when my daughter was younger.
September 13, 2025
Definitely worth reading - I just ordered 3 more copies to give to my friends (who wouldn't buy it for themselves but could all use this). A well written combination of real data, positive psychology, behaviour change methods that really are doable (not just in theory), mixed with personal and patient stories to illustrate the transformation that is possible. A lot of attention on internal emotional and mental well being, self esteem and self worth. Highly recommend.
October 10, 2025
Definitely worth reading, very insightful and different.
September 14, 2025
My thanks to Shanna Pearson, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for allowing me to listen to an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Just to provide context, this is advice from a life coach with a degree in psychology--and a service to sell. She does have ADHD herself and understands it deeply. If you're looking for scientific research, study result discussion, and an extensive bibliography, this is not that kind of book. The ebook only cites six sources.
Every word used to describe the ADHD experience resonated straight down to my marrow. I'm female and was late diagnosed in my 30s after being considered a daydreaming child, moody teen, then an adult with severe treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Through the first quarter of this book, which discusses what ADHD is and how it manifests, I was absolutely riveted, and felt So. Friggin. SEEN.
Then I got to Part III, with the advice and strategies, and the stars left my eyes. I was torn: I wanted to listen, because Pearson continued to describe the struggles and experience of ADHD in ways I related to, and I yearned to know I wasn't alone. But I also wanted to DNF, because I was greatly disappointed in what I was being told. (I did finish it, though--yay me!)
Let's examine, per Pearson's advice. What exactly was I expecting from this book? Well, I was looking for relatability. I wanted someone with my problems, someone who has found success and happiness despite those problems, to tell me I'm okay the way I am. I wanted advice as to how to be okay with being ADHD. I wanted to be told ADHD isn't a problem, here's how to understand it, embrace it, and thrive.
I did find relatability and understanding, but not acceptance. Instead the book made me feel infantilized, ashamed, and angry. Why? Because Pearson does an amazing, inspiring job of explaining and describing how we're different--but then proceeds to advise us to force ourselves to conform to a neurotypical experience, because that's the only way we'll ever feel loved and fulfilled.
I don't want to invalidate her strategies, because they can work. Therapists teach these strategies every day; you'll recognize pieces of CBT, DBT, parts work, etc., in the book. I taught myself a lot of them when I was a child without realizing they were coping strategies. They're not groundbreaking, Pearson's just put her own twist on them. But they're as absurd as ever to me--the solution for the problem is doubling down on the problem? Make your ADHD better by doing things that are inherently extra difficult for ADHDers? It doesn't make sense. It's a recipe for burnout and self-hatred--otherwise known as Square 1.
It's so infuriating, because the first thing she does is relate to us about being told "why can't you just" all your life. Yet her advice is--that stuff you find hard to do? Just try harder to do it. Break it down so even a child could do it. Same sentiment, different words.
One thing that ROYALLY pissed me off was when she told us to just stop eating refined sugar, under the theory that sugar feeds the dysfunction of ADHD. This isn't news, and I already limit my sugar intake, avoid added sugar and HFCS, etc. What pissed me off is that that was it--avoid refined sugar as much as possible. Full stop. I guess I'll just build a rocket and fly to the moon tomorrow, too. In fact, that'd probably be easier. She doesn't explain refined vs. unrefined, doesn't give us alternative options, doesn't explain why, doesn't explore how pervasive refined sugar is in the typical diet. Nope, she just acknowledges that we're probably addicted to sugar and tells us to not be. Because addiction is a switch we can just turn off, right? God, that made me mad.
I felt infantilized because Pearson often said things like "your amazing brain," "your incredible brain," which I'm sure was meant to be encouraging, and if she'd only done it a couple times it might have been. But she did it so often that it started to feel disingenuous and patronizing. Doth protest too much, you know? Additionally, three or four different times when she was explaining her strategies she actually compared us to children. Remember what you were taught in kindergarten? Do that. I assume she was going for relatability or simplification, and again, if she'd done it just once I probably wouldn't have thought much of it, but doing it repeatedly made me feel like a misbehaved child. Again, Square 1.
As for ashamed, it was how she talked about idleness. I wish I'd made note of the exact spot but I didn't (just making a note at all was a win); there were a couple instances when she talked about what we do instead of being productive, like watching TV or playing video games, and it came across to me like she was saying those are shameful, unfulfilling wastes of time. Well, eff you, lady. I like watching TV and playing video games, in moderation of course. How dare you try to make me feel bad about that.
Which ties back into my disappointment with this book--it perpetuates society's expectations of us. Get off your ass, you're not allowed to relax, you're expected to work harder. Your value as a person is intrisically tied to how much you can achieve. Do as much as you can, be as productive as you can, and if you're not succeeding, there's something wrong with you that needs fixing, so practice what successful people do so you can fit in. Do everything that does not come naturally to you and conform. If I were more political, I'd call her strategies ableist trash. She wants us to meet society at its level, when it should be meeting us at ours. Instead of ways to just cope with overwhelm, what about ways to reduce it? Because they are not the same thing. I don't want to cope with overwhelm, I want to not feel overwhelmed.
A few final notes. First, I loved that she repeated important points and included quick summaries at the end of sections, because I absolutely needed them. Genius.
Second, to prompt the reader to practice an exercise, they decided to have a male voice say "do this" before Pearson describes the exercise. They did not think that through. I think the intent was a jarring contrast to grab our attention, but having a man interrupt my listening experience with an order is exactly the right way to trigger defiance in me. I took great pleasure in not doing what he told me to do.
Third, Pearson's narration was okay, but if I listened for a long stretch of time, her voice began to grate. She kept her tone friendly, confident, and patient. At times she sounded like she was laughing, which I took as being upbeat, but other listeners could feel that she's laughing at them or not taking things seriously.
I wonder if she and her coaches keep an eye out for autism in their clients. There's a lot of overlap between autism and ADHD, and more than once while listening I'd think Pearson was straying into autism territory. Or that some of her advice would backfire for an autistic person. Particularly in the communication chapter, I was like--does she know she's describing autism? ADHD is rough, AuDHD is a whole 'nother level.
Just to provide context, this is advice from a life coach with a degree in psychology--and a service to sell. She does have ADHD herself and understands it deeply. If you're looking for scientific research, study result discussion, and an extensive bibliography, this is not that kind of book. The ebook only cites six sources.
Every word used to describe the ADHD experience resonated straight down to my marrow. I'm female and was late diagnosed in my 30s after being considered a daydreaming child, moody teen, then an adult with severe treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Through the first quarter of this book, which discusses what ADHD is and how it manifests, I was absolutely riveted, and felt So. Friggin. SEEN.
Then I got to Part III, with the advice and strategies, and the stars left my eyes. I was torn: I wanted to listen, because Pearson continued to describe the struggles and experience of ADHD in ways I related to, and I yearned to know I wasn't alone. But I also wanted to DNF, because I was greatly disappointed in what I was being told. (I did finish it, though--yay me!)
Let's examine, per Pearson's advice. What exactly was I expecting from this book? Well, I was looking for relatability. I wanted someone with my problems, someone who has found success and happiness despite those problems, to tell me I'm okay the way I am. I wanted advice as to how to be okay with being ADHD. I wanted to be told ADHD isn't a problem, here's how to understand it, embrace it, and thrive.
I did find relatability and understanding, but not acceptance. Instead the book made me feel infantilized, ashamed, and angry. Why? Because Pearson does an amazing, inspiring job of explaining and describing how we're different--but then proceeds to advise us to force ourselves to conform to a neurotypical experience, because that's the only way we'll ever feel loved and fulfilled.
I don't want to invalidate her strategies, because they can work. Therapists teach these strategies every day; you'll recognize pieces of CBT, DBT, parts work, etc., in the book. I taught myself a lot of them when I was a child without realizing they were coping strategies. They're not groundbreaking, Pearson's just put her own twist on them. But they're as absurd as ever to me--the solution for the problem is doubling down on the problem? Make your ADHD better by doing things that are inherently extra difficult for ADHDers? It doesn't make sense. It's a recipe for burnout and self-hatred--otherwise known as Square 1.
It's so infuriating, because the first thing she does is relate to us about being told "why can't you just" all your life. Yet her advice is--that stuff you find hard to do? Just try harder to do it. Break it down so even a child could do it. Same sentiment, different words.
One thing that ROYALLY pissed me off was when she told us to just stop eating refined sugar, under the theory that sugar feeds the dysfunction of ADHD. This isn't news, and I already limit my sugar intake, avoid added sugar and HFCS, etc. What pissed me off is that that was it--avoid refined sugar as much as possible. Full stop. I guess I'll just build a rocket and fly to the moon tomorrow, too. In fact, that'd probably be easier. She doesn't explain refined vs. unrefined, doesn't give us alternative options, doesn't explain why, doesn't explore how pervasive refined sugar is in the typical diet. Nope, she just acknowledges that we're probably addicted to sugar and tells us to not be. Because addiction is a switch we can just turn off, right? God, that made me mad.
I felt infantilized because Pearson often said things like "your amazing brain," "your incredible brain," which I'm sure was meant to be encouraging, and if she'd only done it a couple times it might have been. But she did it so often that it started to feel disingenuous and patronizing. Doth protest too much, you know? Additionally, three or four different times when she was explaining her strategies she actually compared us to children. Remember what you were taught in kindergarten? Do that. I assume she was going for relatability or simplification, and again, if she'd done it just once I probably wouldn't have thought much of it, but doing it repeatedly made me feel like a misbehaved child. Again, Square 1.
As for ashamed, it was how she talked about idleness. I wish I'd made note of the exact spot but I didn't (just making a note at all was a win); there were a couple instances when she talked about what we do instead of being productive, like watching TV or playing video games, and it came across to me like she was saying those are shameful, unfulfilling wastes of time. Well, eff you, lady. I like watching TV and playing video games, in moderation of course. How dare you try to make me feel bad about that.
Which ties back into my disappointment with this book--it perpetuates society's expectations of us. Get off your ass, you're not allowed to relax, you're expected to work harder. Your value as a person is intrisically tied to how much you can achieve. Do as much as you can, be as productive as you can, and if you're not succeeding, there's something wrong with you that needs fixing, so practice what successful people do so you can fit in. Do everything that does not come naturally to you and conform. If I were more political, I'd call her strategies ableist trash. She wants us to meet society at its level, when it should be meeting us at ours. Instead of ways to just cope with overwhelm, what about ways to reduce it? Because they are not the same thing. I don't want to cope with overwhelm, I want to not feel overwhelmed.
A few final notes. First, I loved that she repeated important points and included quick summaries at the end of sections, because I absolutely needed them. Genius.
Second, to prompt the reader to practice an exercise, they decided to have a male voice say "do this" before Pearson describes the exercise. They did not think that through. I think the intent was a jarring contrast to grab our attention, but having a man interrupt my listening experience with an order is exactly the right way to trigger defiance in me. I took great pleasure in not doing what he told me to do.
Third, Pearson's narration was okay, but if I listened for a long stretch of time, her voice began to grate. She kept her tone friendly, confident, and patient. At times she sounded like she was laughing, which I took as being upbeat, but other listeners could feel that she's laughing at them or not taking things seriously.
I wonder if she and her coaches keep an eye out for autism in their clients. There's a lot of overlap between autism and ADHD, and more than once while listening I'd think Pearson was straying into autism territory. Or that some of her advice would backfire for an autistic person. Particularly in the communication chapter, I was like--does she know she's describing autism? ADHD is rough, AuDHD is a whole 'nother level.
November 19, 2025
I just finished Invisible ADHD by Shanna Pearson on audiobook and thought it was excellent. I’m planning to buy a hard copy because there are activities and written exercises you really cannot do while commuting.
Although it is geared toward “smart yet scattered women,” my 12 year old listened to part of it with me on the way to a chorus audition and suddenly said, “Is this why you think I have ADHD.” It made sense to him. It made sense to me. The explanations are clear, validating, and very easy to absorb.
The author narrates the audiobook herself and she does a great job. I recommend this heartily for women who want a practical, compassionate (and humorous) look at how ADHD actually shows up in everyday life.
Although it is geared toward “smart yet scattered women,” my 12 year old listened to part of it with me on the way to a chorus audition and suddenly said, “Is this why you think I have ADHD.” It made sense to him. It made sense to me. The explanations are clear, validating, and very easy to absorb.
The author narrates the audiobook herself and she does a great job. I recommend this heartily for women who want a practical, compassionate (and humorous) look at how ADHD actually shows up in everyday life.
October 27, 2025
4.5 🌟 rounded up
An excellent guide for understanding the why behind ADHD symptoms and possible ways to deal with them. I thought it was presented in a logical fashion, which felt accessible to most people. The repeated summaries at the end of each part were greatly appreciated. I now want to get a physical copy of this book to highlight suggestions and write down notes. Sure, not everything applies to everyone (for instance, I have aphantasia, so telling me to visualize things to help with my memory does nothing for me). But overall, the tips and tricks were smart and practical.
My only qualm is that it somewhat felt like I was being sold on her website’s coaching services. I’m sure it’s very helpful, but I doubt that it's within the budget of the average reader.
Shanna Pearson (the book’s author) narrates the audiobook. I thought she did a good job at getting the information across to listeners.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC.
An excellent guide for understanding the why behind ADHD symptoms and possible ways to deal with them. I thought it was presented in a logical fashion, which felt accessible to most people. The repeated summaries at the end of each part were greatly appreciated. I now want to get a physical copy of this book to highlight suggestions and write down notes. Sure, not everything applies to everyone (for instance, I have aphantasia, so telling me to visualize things to help with my memory does nothing for me). But overall, the tips and tricks were smart and practical.
My only qualm is that it somewhat felt like I was being sold on her website’s coaching services. I’m sure it’s very helpful, but I doubt that it's within the budget of the average reader.
Shanna Pearson (the book’s author) narrates the audiobook. I thought she did a good job at getting the information across to listeners.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC.
July 11, 2025
i have never in my life been so seen from a book.
this book took everything i have struggled with my entire life and broke it down, gave me tips and ways to deal with the struggles, and also gave me examples of other people who deal with (and work through) the same things.
it was also very interesting to me that many of the tools spoken about in this book reflect dialectical behavioral therapy tools but with different wording. As i read, i was constantly like “oh! This is like xyz in DBT!”
i will be giving this book to two of my best friends who also struggle with ADHD, because i truly feel like anyone who reads this will have take aways and benefit from the tools layed out in this book.
you can instantly tell that the author truly understands what its like to be a woman who struggles with adhd, and that she has experience with helping people navigate the world with a brain that functions differently.
this book took everything i have struggled with my entire life and broke it down, gave me tips and ways to deal with the struggles, and also gave me examples of other people who deal with (and work through) the same things.
it was also very interesting to me that many of the tools spoken about in this book reflect dialectical behavioral therapy tools but with different wording. As i read, i was constantly like “oh! This is like xyz in DBT!”
i will be giving this book to two of my best friends who also struggle with ADHD, because i truly feel like anyone who reads this will have take aways and benefit from the tools layed out in this book.
you can instantly tell that the author truly understands what its like to be a woman who struggles with adhd, and that she has experience with helping people navigate the world with a brain that functions differently.
September 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 rounded up
October 22, 2025
In true ADHD fashion, I put off starting this book for entirely too long 🤦♀️ But once I started listening, I knew I needed a physical copy to follow along with. So I ordered a physical copy and bam, it all started to make sense.
Tons of great ideas in this book! A lot that I have already put into practice, and some that I have bookmarked for later. I love that it tells you when to stop listening and DO something. How she repeats the most important bits because she gets that we may get lost along the way.
And yes, it's sitting right out in plain sight so that I don't forget it exists. A truly great tool for ADHD women!
Tons of great ideas in this book! A lot that I have already put into practice, and some that I have bookmarked for later. I love that it tells you when to stop listening and DO something. How she repeats the most important bits because she gets that we may get lost along the way.
And yes, it's sitting right out in plain sight so that I don't forget it exists. A truly great tool for ADHD women!
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