Fictions about ADHD...

1. “Everyone is a little ADHD.”

While many people may experience distractibility or impulsiveness, ADHD is a diagnosable condition with specific criteria that go beyond occasional behaviors.

2. “ADHD is just an excuse for laziness.”

ADHD is a legitimate disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate attention, emotions, and behaviors, not a character flaw or lack of effort.

3. “It only affects boys.”

ADHD affects all genders, but it often goes undiagnosed in girls and women because their symptoms may be less obvious or different, such as more internalized struggles.

4. “People with ADHD can’t focus on anything.”

People with ADHD often experience hyperfocus, where they can deeply concentrate on tasks they find interesting or rewarding.

5. “Kids with ADHD grow out of it.”

While symptoms may evolve with age, ADHD often continues to affect individuals into adulthood.

6. “Sugar causes ADHD.”

There’s no scientific evidence that sugar causes ADHD, though some individuals may be sensitive to dietary triggers.

7. “ADHD is just a modern problem.”

ADHD has existed throughout history, but it has only been more widely studied and understood in recent decades.

8. “ADHD isn’t real—it’s just overdiagnosed.”

ADHD is a well-documented and researched condition. While there can be instances of misdiagnosis, ADHD remains underdiagnosed in many populations, especially adults, women, and people of color.

9. “People with ADHD are always hyper.”

Many individuals with ADHD, especially those with the inattentive type, are not physically hyperactive but may appear daydreamy, distracted, or forgetful.

10. “ADHD is a choice or a lack of willpower.”

ADHD impacts brain chemistry and executive function, making it a neurological condition, not a matter of willpower or motivation.

11. “Adults with ADHD are just irresponsible.”

Adults with ADHD often face challenges with organization, time management, and follow-through due to their symptoms, not because of a lack of responsibility or care.

12. “People with ADHD just need to try harder.”

Effort alone cannot overcome the neurological challenges of ADHD. Effective management requires tailored strategies, support, and sometimes treatment.

13. “If you can focus on video games, you don’t have ADHD.”

Hyperfocus is common in ADHD and occurs when individuals are highly engaged in an activity they find rewarding or stimulating.

14. “ADHD is overmedicated, and people just want a quick fix.”

While ADHD medication is commonly used, it’s not a “quick fix.” Treatment plans typically include behavioral therapy, coaching, and coping strategies.

15. “ADHD isn’t serious—it’s just quirky behavior.”

ADHD can significantly affect daily life, relationships, and work or school performance, making it a serious condition that requires proper management.

16. “You can outgrow ADHD by learning to focus.”

ADHD is a lifelong condition. While people can develop coping mechanisms, the underlying neurological differences remain.

17. “People with ADHD aren’t smart or capable.”

ADHD has no bearing on intelligence. Many people with ADHD are highly creative, innovative, and successful in their fields.

18. “ADHD is the result of too much screen time.”

Screen time doesn’t cause ADHD. However, certain activities may exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.