Misconceptions about
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What is ADHD?

This mental illness is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects people of all ages, but is typically diagnosed in childhood. ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can impact a person's ability to focus, complete tasks, and control their behavior.

 

Misconception #1: People with ADHD can’t ever focus

The idea that children and teenagers with ADHD are unable to pay attention to anything is a frequent misunderstanding. Contrary to what many people think, they pay close attention to nearly everything. This is why it is so challenging for children to concentrate on one activity in isolation, especially if it is boring or uninteresting, like doing schoolwork. The underlying cause of this phenomenon is a central processing disorder in the brains of kids with ADHD. Their brains have difficulty blocking out distracting stimuli or reducing behavioral reactions to them. Poor focus and frequent activity switching follow from this. Children with ADHD are comparable to racehorses without blinders, in essence. Despite their ability to perform well, they are often distracted by their surroundings.

 

Misconception #2: All kids with ADHD are hyperactive

One of the most common misconceptions about ADHD is that all children with the disorder are hyperactive. However, this is not the case. While hyperactivity is a symptom of ADHD, it is not the only symptom, and many children with ADHD do not exhibit hyperactivity at all.

 

ADHD is actually divided into three types: predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type. In the predominantly inattentive type, a child may have difficulty paying attention, following instructions, and completing tasks, but may not be particularly hyperactive or impulsive. In the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, a child may be very active and impulsive, but may not struggle as much with attention and focus. And in the combined type, a child exhibits both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

 

Misconception #3: People with ADHD are lazy 

ADHD affects the executive functions of the brain, which are responsible for organizing, prioritizing, and completing tasks. People with ADHD may have difficulty initiating tasks, maintaining attention, or shifting focus from one task to another, which can make it difficult for them to complete assignments or meet deadlines. They may also struggle with planning and organizing their work, leading to procrastination or a lack of follow-through. This, however, does not mean that those who have ADHD are lazy. 

 

Misconception #4: ADHD is not a real mental illness 

ADHD is a real and recognized mental illness, with a growing body of research demonstrating its neurological and genetic support. It is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States and many other countries.

 

Studies have shown that people with ADHD have differences in brain function and structure compared to those without the disorder. For example, research has shown that people with ADHD have reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions such as attention, planning, and decision-making. Additionally, genetic studies have identified specific genes that are associated with an increased risk of ADHD. Facts and statistics say that ADHD is indeed a real mental illness.