Debunking 5 Myths About ADHD
By now we’ve likely all heard of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), but with so much stigma surrounding this disorder there’s a good chance we’ve picked up some misinformation along the way. Here are 5 common myths about ADHD and the truth behind them:
Myth #1: ADHD isn’t a real condition
ADHD is recognized as a legitimate neurodevelopmental disorder based on extensive research conducted by medical professionals and scientists worldwide. The research includes brain imaging studies that have shown differences in the size of the areas of the brain involved with executive function, such as planning/organization, memory, focus, and motivation/emotional regulation. They have also shown a difference in how brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine function, which also affects executive functions. It has also been found to be highly heritable/genetic leading there to be a 57% chance that a child will have ADHD if at least one parent does (Barkley 2015). There is no objective “lab test” to confirm ADHD, but it has been consistently found through gene/twin studies, as well.
Myth #2: ADHD is just people being lazy
A damaging assumption about a person with ADHD is that they are lazy and just need to try harder. This is like telling a near-sighted person to se farther. People with ADHD are often trying extremely hard only to get half as far they would like due to the inherent brain differences mentioned above. Features of ADHD include low motivation or difficulty initiating and completing tasks. Inability to focus can also cause procrastination with starting tasks. Sometimes forgetfulness may play a role as well. Meanwhile, there is often a constant internal dialogue that is urging the person to remember a task and get it done, followed by feelings of guilt or shame when they are unable to. Another analogy is telling someone to thread a needle when they are in a boat in the middle of the ocean at night. No matter how much you want or try to thread the needle, the circumstances make it borderline impossible.
Myth #3: You can’t be successful if you have ADHD
Everyone’s definitions of smart and success differ, but the reality is that people with ADHD can live fulfilling and successful lives regardless of their diagnosis. In fact, some of the main features of ADHD can lead to success when harnessed as the superpower that they are. Many people with ADHD have the tendency to hyper-focus or have increased energy with certain interests and tasks that they find interesting. This is one way to fuel a passion project and get things done. People with ADHD also tend to be creative and have strong perseverance as they are used to thinking outside the box of neurotypical thinking. Ping-ponging type of thought patterns can also be used to brainstorm and problem-solve in many scenarios. Some examples of successful ADHDers include business magnate Richard Branson, gymnast Simone Biles, and even physicist Albert Einstein.
Myth #4: ADHD looks the same for everyone
ADHD can manifest for everyone differently, but here are the 3 main presentations and common features of each:
Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
fidgety or extreme restlessness
blurts answers or often interrupts
feeling like you’re internally driven by a motor
difficulty with being patient
impulsive behaviors
Inattentive Presentation
easily distracted
trouble with following instructions or listening
forgetful in daily life
difficulty with organization or keeping track of things
finds it hard to sustain attention/mental effort
Combined Presentation
feature of both presentations
Myth #5: ADHD can be cured/grown out of
ADHD is a lifespan disorder, meaning that while it may manifest in childhood, it will not be grown out of as a person ages. It also does not have a cure. Despite these facts, ADHD can successfully be managed and treated with therapy, behavioral interventions, and/or medication. Through therapy a person can learn to work with their ADHD symptoms, rather than against them. They can identify where they are trying to fit into a neurotypical box that does not work for them, and come up with practical ways to approach their life in a way that fits their abilities. Medication prescribed from a licensed medical provider can also be very helpful for some to regulate the differences that are present in the ADHD brain.
If you would like to learn more about living with and treating ADHD, and are looking for info on starting therapy, reach out to set up a free consultation call!
Tina Leboffe, LPC, CCATP, ADHD-CCSP
*Please note that this blog is for your information only and does not constitute clinical advice or establish a client-counselor relationship.