ONLY CHILDREN HAVE ADHD Truth:

ADHD is not a childhood condition. While it is often diagnosed in childhood, many people carry symptoms into adulthood. It’s estimated that around 60-70% of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms as adults. The challenges can look different as responsibilities change, but ADHD is a lifelong condition for many people.

ADHD is NOT Brain Damage  

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition. This means it arises from the way the brain develops and functions, specifically in areas related to attention, executive functioning (like planning and organization), and impulse control. While the exact causes of ADHD aren’t fully understood, research shows that genetics play a significant role, and differences in brain chemistry and structure contribute to how ADHD brains work.Brain damage, on the other hand, refers to injury or trauma to the brain, often from physical accidents, strokes, or other medical conditions. These are usually sudden, acquired impairments rather than inherent developmental differences, which is why equating ADHD with brain damage is scientifically inaccurate.

People with ADHD can’t focus at all Truth:

People with ADHD can absolutely focus, especially on things that interest or excite them—this is called hyperfocus. The challenge of ADHD is more about regulating attention, meaning it's hard to focus on tasks that are less stimulating or repetitive, even if they are important.

People with ADHD are just lazy Truth:

This is one of the most hurtful myths. People with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning (like planning, prioritising, and time management), which can make completing tasks feel overwhelming. It's not about laziness—it's about how their brain processes tasks differently. Many people with ADHD work harder than others to achieve the same outcomes, and they can excel when they have the right tools and strategies.

Everyone has ADHD symptoms sometimes; it’s just normal 

Truth: While it's true that most people may occasionally feel distracted or impulsive, ADHD symptoms are more severe and persistent. For a diagnosis, symptoms must interfere with daily life across multiple settings (like work, school, or relationships) for a significant period of time. It's not just about being occasionally forgetful or distracted—it's about these behaviors significantly impacting daily functioning.

Medications like stimulants are dangerous and overprescribed 

Truth: ADHD medications, especially stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin, have been shown to be safe and effective for many people when taken as prescribed. These medications help improve focus and self-control by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. However, they are not the only treatment, and they aren’t a “quick fix.” ADHD treatment often includes a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

ADHD is just about being hyperactive 

Truth: Hyperactivity is only one possible symptom of ADHD, and it’s not present in everyone. There are three types of ADHD:

Predominantly Inattentive Type: Trouble with attention, forgetfulness, disorganisation, but not necessarily hyperactive.Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, fidgeting, but with relatively normal attention.Combined Type: A combination of both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.