Common Myths About ADHD
About 4.4% of adults in the United States have ADHD. While we often think of it as a children’s disorder, that doesn’t mean it “goes away” through adulthood. Unfortunately, that’s not the only misconception people tend to have about the condition. Although ADHD is common, there are still plenty of myths that surround it. While that might seem harmless, on the surface, spreading misinformation about ADHD can be dangerous and can impact the way people view symptoms and treatment.
We’ll debunk a few of them and, instead, talk about the truth of the disorder.
Myth: It’s Not a Real Condition
One of the biggest (and most tragic) myths surrounding ADHD is that it’s not a real medical condition. While it’s true that some people might assume that their kids have ADHD if they struggle to pay attention or they have a lot of energy, that doesn’t make the actual condition any less valid or legitimate. Far too often, those people don’t receive official diagnoses, so there’s no way to tell if their kids are dealing with the condition or not.
Studies have shown how people with ADHD have differences in brain development. Studies have also shown that it’s often a hereditary condition. Writing it off as something illegitimate is unfair to kids and adults who deal with it daily. Unfortunately, the more people who believe it’s not a real condition, the less likely it is for people to get the diagnosis they need for treatment and support.
Myth: It Can Be Overcome if You “Try Harder”
Another common myth is that ADHD is a lazy person’s condition. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, it’s not uncommon for people with ADHD to feel frustrated or even embarrassed by their symptoms. ADHD has nothing to do with a lack of motivation, willingness, or effort.
No adult wants to have a hard time focusing on work or their relationships. It’s difficult for a child to feel like they’re somehow “behind” their classmates because of how their brain functions.
Myth: ADHD Doesn’t Affect Girls
Boys are indeed twice as likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls. However, that doesn’t mean that girls never get it. Why is this particular myth so harmful? It can lead to a misdiagnosis in girls if they struggle with ADHD symptoms. Or, parents might never try to get them diagnosed at all because they feel like their daughter is somehow immune to the condition.
It’s important to understand that some of the symptoms of ADHD can differ between boys and girls. Do your part to understand those differences, and it will be easier to determine if your daughter should be diagnosed.
Myth: Kids Will Outgrow ADHD
ADHD doesn’t completely go away, and it’s not a “childhood disorder” that you outgrow. Symptoms of ADHD can lessen as kids get older, especially into adulthood. But a lot of that has to do with your ability to handle and manage those symptoms as you mature. That’s why so many adults today are being diagnosed with ADHD for the first time. It’s a condition that likely develops during childhood that continues to impact them.
Whether you’re wondering if your child is struggling with ADHD or you’ve researched the symptoms and have some of them yourself, it’s never too late to get a diagnosis and receive the necessary treatment. Don’t buy into these myths or any other extreme idea you might hear about the condition. Root yourself in truth, and you’ll develop a better understanding of what ADHD really looks like.
Reach out soon if you are interested in learning more about ADHD Treatment and Anxiety Therapy.