Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mental health condition that is unfortunately not entirely understood. The myths and the misunderstanding create not just a rift between recognizing the issue, but it also hampers the timely and effective diagnosis as well. Hence, it is pertinent that ADHD be analyzed in the light of the correct and factual information. 

What is ADHD?

Before getting to the myths pertaining to ADHD, it is important to understand what the disorder is. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopment disorder that can also follow through in the adult life as well. 

There are different types of ADHD, and thus an expert like Psychiatrist in Karachi needs to evaluate the patient. ADHD affects not just the mental health, but physical as well. 

Commonly observed symptoms of ADHD include the inability to focus and pay attention to one matter, getting lost in thoughts, trouble executing tasks. 

Physical symptoms of ADHD include inability to be still, fidgeting a lot, talking too much, trouble getting along with others. It can also cause behavioral problems like difficulty in getting along with others and impulsiveness. 

Suffice to say, ADHD is a condition that can be frustrating to bear, especially if timely diagnosis and help is not received. The myths circulating about the condition make matters worse as well. Knowing and avoiding them then is crucial in realizing the nature and extent of this problem. 

Myths about ADHD

ADHD is a type of learning disability

Learning disabilities are conditions that can hamper people’s learning skills. It could be speech issues, reading problems etc. However, ADHD is not such a learning disability. Learning issues can occur due to ADHD, but this condition, in it of itself, is not a learning disability. 

People who are good at studies cannot get ADHD 

Since people with ADHD suffer from inability to focus, it is naturally then more challenging for them to study, since that task entails focus and concentration. 

However, that does not mean students who are getting good grades cannot have ADHD; both are not mutually exclusive. 

The condition always causes lack of focus

A very confusing, and understandably so, is the myth that people who have ADHD cannot focus, period. However, things are not so simple. People with this condition can also focus single-handedly on a task, in a state known as hyperfocus. 

ADHD is on account of bad parenting 

ADHD is not a result of parenting, as per the myth, but is caused due to genetics. It is present at birth, so parents don’t give this condition to their child. 

ADHD looks the same in boys and girls, both 

ADHD may not manifest in the same way in girls as it does in boys. The latter are more likely to be unruly and thus more difficult to manage. On the other hands, girls become quieter. 

They, instead of being a ball of energy that is difficult to manage, tend to experience feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. They are more likely to daydream, so tied up in their thoughts they are. Moreover, they are more prone to becoming disorganized. 

Due to the lack of outward manifestation, it is harder for them to get a diagnosis as well. It also posits various challenges for them, including low self-esteem, bullying, relationship issues etc. 

ADHD resolves with age 

Another myth that is associated with ADHD is that it can resolve with age. This misconception can get in the way of proper treatment. However, this is not entirely true; while yes, some symptoms can improve over time, but the condition itself does not resolve with age. People still need to get treatment for it. 

ADHD does not require medical attention 

A very misleading concept is that ADHD does not require medical attention, which is extremely harmful. It is a legitimate medical condition that requires treatment from an expert like those at Fauji Foundation Hospital.