Debunking Common Myths About ADHD
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder has a history of being misunderstood by society and even professionals. I’m going to break down three myths about ADHD that I hear most often in my therapy practice.
Myth #1: Children with ADHD will grow out of it. While ADHD will look different at different ages, it does not “go away” once we hit adulthood. This myth is common because kids with ADHD often present as hyper, impulsive, and “always on the go”, but very rarely do adults act in this way. Rather, hyperactivity in adulthood may look like constant fidgeting, foot or leg tapping, frequently leaving your seat, or just a general internal sense of restlessness. So, yes, the hyperactive child may not be bouncing off the walls once they become an adult. But, the hyperactivity is usually still there- just in more subtle ways. ADHD is a developmental disorder; meaning it lasts a person’s lifetime.
Myth #2: ADHD just means that you get easily distracted. Don’t get me wrong; issues with focusing is super common in ADHD, but it is so much more than that. Other challenges people with ADHD may experience include emotion-regulation difficulties, problems with self-motivation and organization, and impulsivity. Being easily distracted is only a small piece of the ADHD puzzle.
Myth #3: ADHD is overdiagnosed. Quite the opposite is true, in fact. According to the National Institute of Health, ADHD is underdiagnosed, undertreated, and often occurring alongside other mental health problems (such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse). This often leads to problems for people that can be significantly debilitating. I have seen this extremely often in my practice- new clients will have had diagnoses in the past in which the treatment and medication never worked for them. When in reality, it was ADHD all along.
ADHD is often misunderstood, and myths like it only affecting children or being overdiagnosed can create stigma. By debunking these misconceptions, we can foster a more informed, supportive environment. ADHD is a complex condition that requires understanding, and with the right support and strategies, individuals CAN thrive. Let’s focus on facts, not myths, to help those with ADHD get the care they need.