Smart but Stuck offers a series of true stories about intelligent, capable teens and adults who have gotten stuck at school or work, or in social relationships because of their ADHD. These moving and sometimes surprising case histories illustrate the many facets of the disorder and detail strategies and treatments those with ADHD can use to get unstuck. In these pages youll meet Sue , who earned good grades until middle school, then lost motivation for schoolwork. Now in 9th grade, shes frustrating teachers and family while losing hope for herself. Mike , a college student who recently found himself on academic probation. His dad has always told him hes smart but just lazy, and now hes starting to believe it. Steve , a computer programmer whose ADHD struggles have led to him losing his joband his wife. Hes good at programming computers, but not at programming himself. Sarah , whos had trouble keeping track of things and getting work done since she hit menopause. She never had such a hard time when she was younger. Dr. Thomas Brown, an internationally known authority on ADHD, highlights the often-unrecognized role that emotions play in this complex disorder. And its not just negative emotions. As Brown shows, those with ADHD also have a hard time managing positive emotions about certain interests and activities, making it hard for them to shift gears and pay attention to immediate needs and responsibilities. Brown offers an updated view of ADHD and explains why even very bright people with ADHD can get stuck, struggling to motivate themselves for important tasks. He demonstrates why many with ADHD can have laser-like focus for some tasks while finding it difficult to concentrate on others. Above all, Brown details paths that people with ADHD can take to move on toward a more rewarding and productive life.