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Nobody Told Me


Synopsis


Winner of the Ted Hughes Award for New Work in Poetry


'This book should be required reading for anyone thinking of having a baby, or even anyone who knows someone who is thinking of having a baby' Scotland on Sunday

'Fascinating and honest' Mumsnet

'Like talking to a friend' Observer

There were many things that Hollie McNish didn't know before she was pregnant. How her family and friends would react; that Mr Whippy would be off the menu; how quickly ice can melt on a stomach. These were on top of the many other things she didn't know about babies: how to stand while holding one; how to do a poetry gig with your baby as an audience member; how drum'n'bass can make a great lullaby. And that's before you even start on toddlers.

But Hollie learned. And she's still learning, slowly.

Nobody Told Me is a collection of poems and stories; Hollie's thoughts on raising a child in modern Britain, of trying to become a parent in modern Britain, of sex, commercialism, feeding, gender and of finding secret places to scream once in a while.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Revelation

* The author, Leslie Morgan Steiner, discovers she has ADHD at age 40 after her son is diagnosed.
* She realizes that the struggles she's faced throughout her life are symptoms of an undiagnosed condition.
* Example: Steiner had always struggled with organization, time management, and forgetfulness.

Chapter 2: The Diagnosis

* Steiner undergoes a comprehensive evaluation and receives a formal diagnosis of ADHD.
* She learns about the different types of ADHD and the treatments available.
* Example: Steiner is diagnosed with primarily inattentive ADHD, which involves difficulty sustaining attention and difficulty controlling impulsive behavior.

Chapter 3: The Medication

* Steiner begins taking medication for her ADHD and experiences significant improvement in her symptoms.
* She shares the pros and cons of medication and discusses how to find the right medication for her.
* Example: Steiner experiences improved focus, increased motivation, and better sleep after starting medication.

Chapter 4: The Challenges

* Steiner faces challenges as she navigates life with ADHD, including stigma, misunderstanding, and self-doubt.
* She discusses the importance of self-acceptance and finding support.
* Example: Steiner encounters skepticism from some people who don't believe that adults can have ADHD or who view medication as a crutch.

Chapter 5: The Gifts

* Steiner reframes her ADHD as a gift that brings unique perspectives and strengths.
* She explores the positive aspects of ADHD, such as creativity, innovation, and hyperfocus.
* Example: Steiner discovers that her ability to hyperfocus allows her to delve deeply into topics she's passionate about, resulting in innovative ideas.

Chapter 6: The Future

* Steiner looks ahead to the future and discusses her hopes and aspirations for herself and others with ADHD.
* She emphasizes the importance of education, advocacy, and acceptance.
* Example: Steiner becomes an advocate for ADHD awareness and shares her story to help others understand the condition and improve their lives.