ADHD Myths
Myth #1: ADHD Isn't a Real Condition
One of the biggest and most harmful misconceptions about ADHD is that it's not real—that people with ADHD are just making excuses for being disorganised, unmotivated, or lazy. In reality, ADHD is a well-documented neurodevelopmental disorder recognised by medical and psychological professionals worldwide, including the World Health Organisation and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. It is listed in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). We know ADHD affects the brain's ability to regulate attention, impulse control, and executive functioning. People with ADHD often work twice as hard just to keep up because their brains are wired differently.
Myth #2: ADHD Only Affects Children
Many people believe ADHD is something children grow out of, but that's far from the truth. While symptoms often appear in childhood, ADHD is a lifelong condition for most people. Many adults struggle with ADHD symptoms, including difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, impulsivity, and time management issues. The difference is that adults often develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms to some degree, but that doesn't mean the condition isn't there. A 2005 study concluded that ADHD can indeed persist into adulthood, causing disruptions to both an individual's professional and personal life.
Myth #3: Everyone Has a Little ADHD
We've all had moments where we feel distracted, forgetful, or impulsive, but that doesn't mean everyone has ADHD. ADHD is more than just being easily distracted—it's a chronic condition that affects multiple aspects of life, from school and work to relationships and mental health. Dismissing ADHD as something "everyone has" minimises the challenges of those who live with it every day.
Myth #4: ADHD Only Looks One Way
When people picture ADHD, they often imagine a hyperactive young boy who can't sit still. But ADHD presents in different ways! There are three types: hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive, and combined. Some people with ADHD are constantly moving, while others struggle with daydreaming and staying organised. Many women and girls, for example, go undiagnosed because their symptoms don't fit the stereotypical image of ADHD. This means they often end up with concurrent mental health issues such as anxiety and depression because of the delayed intervention and provision of supports.
Myth #5: ADHD Is the Result of Bad Parenting
Some people mistakenly believe that ADHD is caused by bad parenting, assuming that children with ADHD simply lack discipline. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with biological and genetic factors. While a structured and supportive environment can help manage symptoms, ADHD is not something that parents cause. A 2017 study in the Netherlands found that there were differences in the brain areas responsible for controlling impulse, attention and other cognitive functions between participants with ADHD and non-ADHD participants. Thus, making it clear that parenting style alone cannot ‘cause' ADHD.
Myth #6: ADHD Is Caused by Too Much Sugar, Gaming, or TV
For many years people have commented that too much sugar, screen time, or video games cause ADHD. While these factors can certainly impact focus and energy levels, they do not cause ADHD. Research has shown that ADHD is a neurological condition with strong genetic links that can be diagnosed from a very early age. Whilst a healthy diet and balanced screen time can benefit everyone, they do not prevent or cause ADHD. Blaming sugar or technology distracts from the real science behind the condition.
Myth #7: ADHD Is Overdiagnosed and Overtreated
Some people believe that ADHD is diagnosed too often and that too many children and adults are being medicated unnecessarily. While it's true that awareness of ADHD has increased in recent years, this does not mean it is overdiagnosed. In fact, many people—especially women and adults—remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. To obtain a diagnosis of ADHD, an individual must display numerous symptoms, experience substantial difficulties in multiple areas of life—such as work, school, or social relationships—and have these symptoms persist for at least six months. ADHD is a real condition that can significantly impact daily life, and proper diagnosis ensures that individuals receive the support and treatment they need.
Myth #8: Medication is the Only Treatment for ADHD
While medication can be an effective way to manage ADHD symptoms, it's not the only option. Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, ADHD Coaching and lifestyle changes can all help people with ADHD thrive. A combination of treatments tailored to the individual often works best. The goal isn't to "cure" ADHD but to help individuals manage their symptoms in a way that allows them to live fulfilling lives.
Myth #9: Kids with ADHD Just Need to Try Harder
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental difference, and neuroimaging research shows that the brains of individuals with ADHD are structurally and functionally different from those without ADHD. Skills like focusing, prioritising, and managing executive functions are genuinely harder for people with ADHD. It's not about laziness or a lack of effort — in fact, children with ADHD are often working twice as hard as their peers just to try and keep up. The challenges they face are rooted in how their brains are wired, not in how hard they're trying.
Myth #10: Girls with ADHD Never Experience Hyperactivity
It's a common misconception that girls with ADHD don't show signs of hyperactivity. In reality, many girls do experience hyperactivity, but it can look different from the way it often appears in boys. Instead of running or climbing excessively, girls might be more likely to fidget, talk rapidly, interrupt others, or feel constantly restless. Because their hyperactive behaviours can be less obvious, girls with ADHD are often overlooked or diagnosed later than boys.
Myth #11: ADHD Only Has Negative Aspects
While ADHD can come with challenges, it's important to recognise that it's not all negative. Many people with ADHD are incredibly creative, energetic, spontaneous, and full of original ideas. Their ability to think outside the box, tackle problems from unique angles, and bring enthusiasm to tasks can be real strengths. With the right support and understanding, individuals with ADHD can harness these qualities to thrive in school, work, and everyday life.
