People with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) often experience a variety of symptoms and challenges, including:
Inattention:
• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
• Often overlooks details, leading to careless mistakes.
• Struggles with organisation and following through on tasks.
• Frequently loses essential items like keys, paperwork, or tools.
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
Hyperactivity:
• Often fidgets with or taps hands and feet, or squirms in seat.
• Feels restless, often running or climbing inappropriately (in children).
• Unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
• Often “on the go,” acting as if “driven by a motor.” Impulsivity:
• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
• Difficulty waiting for their turn in conversations or activities.
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butting into conversations or games).
Emotional Dysregulation:
• May have difficulty managing emotions, leading to mood swings.
• May show frustration, impatience, or anger unexpectedly.
Social Challenges:
• Difficulty in maintaining friendships and relationships due to impulsivity or inattention.
• Misinterpreting social cues or norms.
Performance Inconsistency:
• Performance at work or school may be inconsistent, with good days and bad days.
• May show a pattern of underachievement or not meeting potential. Executive
Function Difficulties:
• Struggles with planning, prioritising, and time management.
• Difficulty in following complex instructions or multi-step procedures.
Problems with Self-Esteem:
• Frequent criticisms from others can lead to feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem.
It’s important to note that ADHD manifests differently in each individual and can vary significantly in severity. Additionally, adults may experience different or more nuanced symptoms compared to children.
The outcomes for people receiving a diagnosis are generally positive for mental health disorders as there are interventions that can really assist. The same is generally true for ADHD but accurate assessment and diagnosis is hugely important.
The CDC reported that approximately 9.4% of children aged 2-17 years had been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2016. Some who receive a diagnosis report feeling as though a weight is lifted and many find treatment that improves their lives, maximising their success across many domains including study, relationships, physical activity and occupation.
Like many mental health challenges, ADHD has previously carried a stigma. Here are some key points that dispel common myths about ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) diagnoses and treatments:
1.Myth: ADHD is a result of poor parenting.
•Truth: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, not caused by parenting style. Genetics play a significant role in its development.
2.Myth: Only children can have ADHD.
•Truth: ADHD can persist into adulthood. Many adults with ADHD may not have been diagnosed as children.
3.Myth: People with ADHD are just lazy or undisciplined.
•Truth: ADHD affects focus, impulse control, and organisational skills. It’s not about laziness or lack of discipline.
4.Myth: Medication is the only treatment for ADHD.
•Truth: While medication can be effective, therapy (like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness) and lifestyle changes also play crucial roles in managing ADHD.
5.Myth: ADHD medication is dangerous and addictive.
•Truth: ADHD medications, when properly prescribed and monitored, are generally safe. They have a low risk of addiction when used as directed.
6.Myth: Everyone with ADHD is hyperactive.
•Truth: ADHD has different subtypes. Some individuals may have the predominantly inattentive type without obvious hyperactivity.
7.Myth: ADHD isn’t a real medical condition.
•Truth: ADHD is a well-documented medical condition recognised by major health organisations. It’s based on extensive research.
8.Myth: ADHD medications cure the disorder.
•Truth: Medications help manage symptoms but don’t cure ADHD. Treatment often involves a multi-faceted approach.
9.Myth: Children with ADHD will outgrow it.
•Truth: While some children may see a reduction in symptoms as they age, many will continue to experience symptoms in adulthood.
10.Myth: ADHD only affects academic performance.
•Truth: ADHD can impact many areas of life, including social interactions, employment, and daily functioning.
11.Myth: ADHD medication dramatically changes a person’s personality.
• Truth: Properly prescribed ADHD medication should not fundamentally change a person’s personality. It aims to reduce symptoms like inattention and hyperactivity, improving the ability to focus and function effectively.
12.Myth: The rise in ADHD cases is due to excessive screen time and video games.
• Truth: While excessive screen time can impact attention and behaviour, there’s no conclusive evidence that it causes ADHD. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with genetic and environmental factors. Increased awareness and better diagnostic methods contribute to the rise in diagnosed cases, not just modern technology use.
Addressing these misconceptions is crucial to ensuring that those with ADHD receive appropriate and effective care. If you suspect you may have ADHD, the video below may reflect some of your experiences and answer some questions about diagnosis.
Dr Jared DeFife, clinical psychologist
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© Psychology Tas | All Rights Reserved