Over the years, so much has been said concerning ADHD which are merely misconceptions about the disorder. Some have thought of it as a result of bad upbringing, while others have thought about it as the individual’s fault; they believe those with ADHD behave in certain ways to purposely annoy or to avoid school work and other given tasks. Also, some feel those with ADHD should be given harsh discipline in order to overcome such condition.
As parents, care givers, teachers, siblings of individuals with ADHD and also those with ADHD , it is important that we have adequate knowledge about the disorder and be able to distinguish between mere myths and true facts about ADHD.
Highlighted below are some of the common misconceptions or myths on ADHD and the facts that refute them.
#1
Myth: Children with ADHD are just lazy
Fact: They are not lazy. They work as hard as other kids and may even work twice as hard but their results may be hindered by their condition.
#2
Myth: ADHD isn’t a real disorder.
Fact: It is a brain based disorder which often results in some learning and behavioural difficulties. It is also one of the most common childhood disorders.
#3
Myth: ADHD is Gender-specific. Only boys have it.
Fact: It is not a gender-specific disorder as it affects both boys and girls.
#4
Myth: Sugar causes ADHD
Fact: Sugar increases energy levels and can induce hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD but it is not the cause of ADHD.
#5
Myth: ADHD results from bad parenting practices.
Fact: Though the symptoms of ADHD can be improved or worsened by parenting practices, ADHD is not caused by bad parenting.
#6
Myth: ADHD is prevalent among hyperactive children.
Fact: Although, hyperactivity is a common symptom experienced by individuals with ADHD, individuals that are less hyperactive can have the Inattentive subtype of ADHD.
#7
Myth: A person with ADHD isn’t vulnerable to any other conditions.
Fact: A person with ADHD is actually predisposed to other conditions such as conduct disorder and anxiety disorders.
#8
Myth: Children with ADHD don’t become successful adults.
Fact: ADHD isn’t a hindrance to success in life. Actually, many successful and popular icons were diagnosed with ADHD such as Benjamin Franklin and Abraham Lincoln.
When next someone tells you one of the above mentioned myths, you sure will have the right facts to debunk them. Kindly follow me @DrMorayoJimoh for more interesting updates on #LetstalkaboutADHD and share other myths you’ve heard as well.
