To recap and recall what misconceptions we first discussed, (click here)

1: “ADHD isn’t real!” or “Everyone is a bit ADHD sometimes!”

False! While the symptoms of ADHD can be hard to spot because neurotypical people may also do these things, ADHD is a mental disorder that has been researched and proven to be very real!(In fact, it’s one of the most researched mental disorders) (More on that here)

2: If you can sit still, you definitely don’t have ADHD.

False! While being hyperactive is a symptom of ADHD, ADHD comes in different types; Inattentive, Hyperactive/ Impulsive and a combination of both! Not being physically hyperactive does not always mean a person is ADHD-free. (More on that here)

3: “But you’re smart! You can’t have ADHD!”

False! Anyone can have ADHD and having ADHD doesn’t mean that a person can’t be smart or successful! They just need to work harder and sometimes outside help is appreciated!

4: ADHD is an excuse or result of poor parenting.

We’ve already established that yes. ADHD is real so it’s definitely not an excuse! And while poor parenting does not cause ADHD, It can make symptoms worse. For example, many people with ADHD have trouble regulating their emotions (this is called ‘Emotional Dysfunction’) and react negatively to criticism. Having overly critical parents may cause symptoms to worsen. Encouragement and patience, on the other hand, can do wonders!

5: “You can’t have ADHD! You can focus on ___________!”

Nope! People with ADHD can do something called ‘Hyperfocusing’! And they tend to do so more easily when doing something they find stimulating and enjoyable! (More on that here)

Click on to see us debunk the next 5 most common stigmas and misconceptions about ADHD!

Source 1 & 2