Misconceptions about ADHD
Firstly, what is ADHD ? ADHD otherwise known as attention-deficit
hyperactivity disorder is a condition that affects an individuals behaviour.
It's one of the most commonly diagnosed behavioural disorders in children
and is a lifelong condition. Individuals with ADHD will fall into one of the
two main symptoms: Inattentiveness or Hyperactivity, while some may have
both.
Some of the main signs of Inattentiveness -
● Being easily distracted
● Appearing forgetful
● Constantly changing activities
● Difficulty organising tasks
Some of the main signs of Hyperactivity -
● Inability to sit still
● Being unable to concentrate on tasks
● Excessive talking or physical movement
● Acting without thinking
While these symptoms don't represent the entire ADHD community these
are especially common. However many non-neurodiverse people have very
incorrect, negative misconceptions, it's important to highlight and address
these !
1. Only boys can have ADHD.
This is one of the most common misconceptions about ADHD, ADHD has no
gender bias and equally shows up as much in girls as it does boys. However
Boys are twice as likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls, although this
is due to girls being misunderstood or misdiagnosed by medical
professionals.
2. Only children can get ADHD.
This is also an incorrect view on ADHD, while most cases of ADHD are
diagnosed between the ages of 6 to 12 years old it does not dismiss the fact
that many adults who have ADHD are simply undiagnosed. Symptoms of
ADHD can improve with age but do not always completely disappear.
3. ADHD isn't a real medical condition.
All major medical groups such the National Institutes of health, NHS and
the American Medical Association recognise ADHD as a valid condition.
Symptoms differ to each person but ADHD remains a real condition.
4. Bad parenting causes ADHD
Many people believe some of the symptoms of ADHD are simply bad
behaviour and lack of discipline from parents. This is simply untrue , ADHD
is a neurobiological disorder not the result of poor parenting.
These are just some examples of common misconceptions of ADHD, it's
important misinterpretations of the disorder are addressed and individuals are
educated on the matter.
Millie @ANC
