Common Misconceptions About ADHD

ADHD is a condition that everyone has heard of, but few people truly understand. There are many judgments and misconceptions around this disorder, which have led to misinformation. This misinformation has dire consequences, such as preventing people from getting diagnosed and treatments to improve their lives.

Though many people dismiss ADHD as a fancy term for hyper-children, the fact is that it is a mental health disorder that affects many people of all ages. This article will give a basic introduction to ADHD as well as the most common misconceptions about it.

What Is ADHD?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder that is characterized by hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. As a result, a person with ADHD may struggle to focus and be quite restless. Though people with ADHD may experience a spectrum of severity in symptoms, some experience difficulties with work, relationships, and school because of this disorder.

ADHD is most often diagnosed in children but is found in adults too. As of right now, more boys are diagnosed with ADHD than girls, but this may be because girls are more likely to “mask” their behaviors to try to behave like everyone else.

For more information about ADHD, you can find more resources at BetterHelp. Now, let’s discuss some of the most common misconceptions about this disorder.

Common Misconceptions About ADHD

ADHD is probably one of the most misinformed disorders out there. Many people seem to have their own beliefs as to what ADHD is, and many don’t consider it a real issue.

The problem with these misconceptions is that it often fuels misinformation. Therefore many people harshly judge those with ADHD and dismiss the disorder as nothing serious. Many people may be living with ADHD but don’t believe it exists due to this misinformation. Therefore they lose out on valuable treatment options that can make their lives easier.

Here are some common misconceptions about ADHD.

ADHD Is Not A Real Condition

The most common misconception about ADHD is that it is not a real condition. Many people just assume it’s just “kids being kids” as children are known to be very hyper and active. Other people believe it is just a generational issue due to short attention spans from technological advances.

ADHD is a mental disorder. Though it is true that children are genuinely active and may have difficulty focusing, children with ADHD will struggle enough where it interferes with their schoolwork or affects their relationships with family and friends. Adults with ADHD may overlook details and forget to do their chores or attend important appointments. They may also be forgetful and misplace items often. Therefore, this condition is beyond just being a bit hyper or distracted.

People With ADHD Never Focus

Though people with ADHD struggle to focus, the fact is that they may actually hyperfocus on something that they are genuinely passionate about. For example, they may struggle to study for more than a few minutes at a time but can easily focus on a video game or another hobby for a span of eight hours.

Kids With ADHD Will Outgrow It

Many people believe that ADHD is just a condition for children and that they will outgrow it in adulthood. While most diagnosed cases are children, awareness of adult ADHD is spreading. Many adults are now getting an accurate diagnosis after spending decades struggling in this modern world. Because of this, there may be a significant increase in adult ADHD cases in the future.

ADHD Is A Learning Disability

ADHD is not a learning disability. It does not affect a person’s ability to learn, read, or write. A person with ADHD can function normally and do well in school as long as they find ways to improve their concentration.

However, ADHD is a developmental disability which means it may affect how a person learns as well as their behaviors or communication style. It may alter how children develop, but it does not prevent them from learning.

Bottom Line

ADHD is a serious disorder that can affect a whole person’s life. It is so much more than just a bit of hyperactivity or difficulty focusing. The misinformation that has spread about this disorder prevents many people from seeking a diagnosis and receiving treatment. Hopefully, this article helped you understand what ADHD is as well as decipher what is fact vs. fiction when it comes to this disorder.

Author Biography

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health-related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.