Myths of ADHD

Common misconceptions about ADHD can create shame and often prevent patients from getting treatment. Children and adults with ADHD often experience inaccurate self beliefs. These internalized thoughts can turn into negative thought patterns that include - I should just try harder, why am I so lazy, I’m dumb and will never be good at this.

A common misconception is that I can’t have ADHD if I get good grades or because I’m successful at work. Other facets of daily functioning can be overwhelming and stressful. Success in one area does not exclude struggling with motivation, working memory and procrastination which can all lead to mental exhaustion. ADHD has nothing to do with intelligence but can affect how we live our lives and view ourselves.

Challenges of ADHD include:

Struggling with transitions - ability to shift to a different task, challenging when hyperfocusing on another activity

Impulse control - difficulty to resist urges and reacting to stimuli and feeling the need for stimulation.

Working memory - difficulty with remembering tasks in the here and now.

More often than not, boys and adult men receive a diagnosis of ADHD and get treatment at significantly higher rates compared to female counterparts. They often present with predominantly hyperactive symptoms and females tend to experience more inattention and are often diagnosed with anxiety disorder.

Consequences of not treating ADHD can lead to increased difficulty with self esteem, higher levels of anxiety, substance use, self harm, low self esteem and difficulty in peer relationships. ADHD medication can help manage and reduce many of core ADHD symptoms.

Author: Dr. Ravinder Marok, MD - Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist