The Myths of ADHD

There are many myths of ADHD circulating and I think I have heard just about all of them over the last month. I wanted to share with you my insights into this neurodevelopmental condition to dispel the myths and invite more clarity and empathy. Let's go!

1. Myth: ADHD is just an excuse for laziness.

Reality: If ADHD were a superpower, it would be the ability to procrastinate at lightning speed. It's not about being lazy; it's like having 100 browser tabs open and not knowing where the music is coming from.

2. Myth: Only kids have ADHD.

Reality: Surprise! ADHD is not like your baby teeth; it doesn't just fall out as you grow up. Adults can have it too, but unfortunately, there's no "ADHD Fairy" to leave money under your pillow for it.

3. Myth: People with ADHD can't focus on anything.

Reality: Ever tried to talk to someone with ADHD when they’re engrossed in their favorite video game? Good luck! It’s called *hyperfocus* – they can lock in like a laser, just not always on what you want.

4. Myth: ADHD isn't real; it's just bad parenting.

Reality: This one's a classic. If ADHD were a result of bad parenting, some of the most well-behaved kids with the most patient parents would be bouncing off the walls. ADHD is a brain thing, not a parenting thing.

5. Myth: ADHD is just about being hyper.

Reality: If only it were that simple! ADHD is like having your brain DJ-ing a party with three different soundtracks. Hyperactivity is just one of the tracks – there’s also distractibility and impulsiveness playing in the background.

6. Myth: People with ADHD are just not trying hard enough.

- Reality: Imagine trying to type a report while riding a roller coaster. That’s what focusing with ADHD can feel like. They're trying, but it's a wild ride up there in their brains.

7. Myth: ADHD meds turn you into a zombie.

Reality: While medication may not be for everyone, it helps many people, and it doesn’t turn them into zombies. It's more like upgrading from dial-up internet to high-speed Wi-Fi – things just get smoother and more manageable.

8. Myth: ADHD means you're not smart.

Reality: Some of the most creative and intelligent minds have ADHD. It’s like having a Ferrari brain with bicycle brakes – sometimes hard to control, but wow, can it go fast when it’s on track!

9. Myth: ADHD can be cured by just getting more organised.

Reality: Organisation helps, sure, but telling someone with ADHD to “just get organised” is like telling a cat to take a bath. Good luck with that!

10. Myth: ADHD is overdiagnosed because everyone has it.

Reality: If everyone had ADHD, the world would be a constant game of musical chairs. It’s diagnosed based on specific criteria and not just because someone forgot where they put their keys.

Remember, ADHD is real and affects people in various ways. Embracing these differences can lead to a better understanding and a whole lot of empathy.