Debunking 4 Myths About ADHD
Over 15 million adults in the United States have a current ADHD diagnosis, as well as millions of children who are diagnosed every year. Those numbers are conservative, too, considering the fact that many people go undiagnosed with the condition for years.
Yet, as common as ADHD is, there are still plenty of myths and misconceptions surrounding the disorder. These myths can create a stigma around ADHD and even other mental health conditions that can inhibit diagnoses and treatment.
Let’s take a closer look at some of those misconceptions and debunk some of the common myths about ADHD.
1. ADHD Is A Learning Disability
People (especially children) with ADHD don’t necessarily have a harder time learning things than anyone else. They simply might learn differently.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, not a disability. It causes a person’s brain to work and process things differently. While learning can sometimes be challenging, typically, it’s because things aren’t being taught in a way that connects with a neurodivergent mind.
Many people with ADHD are exceptionally bright and excel in certain areas of interest because they can become extremely focused on those topics. It’s about finding what works for each individual and creating an environment that supports their learning style.
2. ADHD Only Affects Certain People
It’s true that certain groups are more at risk of developing ADHD, but it can impact anyone.
For example, ADHD is often referred to as a children’s disorder. This is largely because it gets diagnosed more often in children than adults. However, that doesn’t mean symptoms go away as you get older. Once you’re diagnosed with ADHD — at any age — it’s a condition you might have to manage forever.
It’s also a myth that ADHD only affects boys. While it’s true that boys are diagnosed more frequently, some of that has to do with how symptoms present differently in girls. Because they aren’t always as obvious, girls can often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
3. ADHD Is A Behavioral Issue
One of the biggest misconceptions about ADHD is that the people dealing with it are somehow choosing to act a certain way. ADHD is not a behavioral problem. It doesn’t mean someone is lazy or mad about not getting their way.
Rather, the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity aren’t necessarily a “choice” for someone with the disorder. They are symptoms that can be difficult to control without the right treatment or management techniques.
4. ADHD Medication Cures All
There are many myths associated with ADHD medication. Some people believe that it will change the personality of the individual taking it, which isn’t true. ADHD medication is designed to help people focus and control impulsive behaviors. It isn’t meant to keep them “drugged” or change who they are. Sometimes, it can take some adjusting for medications and dosages to work properly, but these prescriptions are solely meant for symptom management.
While medication can certainly help, it isn’t the only way to manage ADHD. Many people use it as a supplement to therapy.
Behavioral therapy can make a big difference when it comes to symptom management. It can help to improve focus, teach the skills needed to manage daily tasks with focus, reduce the risk of impulsive behaviors, and more.
It’s not uncommon for people with ADHD to struggle with insecurities or even issues like depression because they somehow feel inadequate or “different.” Therapy can help with these issues, too.
It’s important to talk to your doctor and/or a mental health professional before deciding which ADHD treatment is right for you. Most importantly, don’t let the myths about ADHD keep you from getting the right diagnosis or the help you deserve. If you’re ready to learn more about ADHD Testing, contact me for information or to set up an appointment.
