Interview by Newsletter Editor Jamie Bieber
Jamie: I am so grateful to speak with you. I just read your ADHD 2.0 book. I wanted to ask you for all the entering dental students in the next few months, how to set yourself up with the right resources?
Dr. Hallowell: You mean the students who know they have ADHD?
Jamie: Even for those who were previously diagnosed, since the level intensity is crazy.
Dr. Hallowell: Right, That is because all of a sudden [the intensity] goes through the roof. Basically, if you know you have it, get on the right medication and get a coach. If you don’t know you have it and you suddenly get overwhelmed, suddenly the organizational demands exceed your ability to compensate then get diagnosed! Also get with an organizational coach. And then all the suggestions in the book work better with the medication.
Jamie: You are saying to get help externally outside the school, and not internally inside the school?
Dr. Hallowell: Yes, it could be inside the school. If some schools have really good supports for kids having trouble with executive function. Some schools don’t. At some schools it is just sink or swim.
Jamie: Yes, and that is why I called on you because if there is anyone who knows how to help dental students in this extreme environment…
Dr. Hallowell: It comes down to coaching and medication. They should read my book, that would help. And certainly basics: get enough sleep, get enough exercise…
Jamie: I was reading in your book how to create the right environment. Do you have advice for the ADHD person who are interesting, entrepreneurial, but not valued for those skills? How do you survive with your identity at this time?
Dr. Hallowell: Well you find people who value you and don’t take the de-valuing seriously. You know you are entrepreneurial. You know you are creative… Find your own creative outlet.
Jamie: What advice do you have for dental students who are graduating soon and who are looking for a dental office that meets their needs?
Dr. Hallowell: You have to design your own plan. There is no ADD office. One thing is to partner up with someone whose got great attention to detail. Hire people who can do what you are not good at and so you can primarily do what you are good at.