Despite advancements in research, several misconceptions surrounding ADHD continue to be spread. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. ADHD actually has three different types of presentations: Inattentive, Hyperactive, and Combined Type. I speak more in depth about ADHD and treatment in my blog article “ More Than Medication: Why Therapy is an Essential Part of ADHD Treatment”.
In this article, we will work on debunking misconceptions surrounding ADHD. Below we will discuss three common myths:
Myth 1: ADHD Is An Excuse For Bad Behavior
One of the most damaging myths about ADHD is that it is an excuse for disruptive or inattentive behavior. Not only is that untrue but for those who struggle with ADHD those assumptions are incredibly unhelpful.
ADHD symptoms affect more than just someone’s focus. As a therapist that specializes in ADHD, I see my clients who have ADHD struggling with emotional regulation, social anxiety, and more. Increasing your knowledge of ADHD (eg: different types of presentations, symptoms to look for), can help to decrease the stigma of ADHD.
Myth 2: ADHD Is Over-diagnosed And Overmedicated
While it is true that ADHD diagnoses have increased in recent years, that does not automatically indicate over diagnosis.
The rise in ADHD diagnoses can be related to a myriad of factors. Increased and improved societal awareness with authentic recognition of the condition can lead to increased acceptance of ADHD as a whole. I see this in sessions with my clients as they learn more about how to manage their ADHD symptoms. We discuss factors including how to begin to accept their ADHD Diagnosis as well as providing resources they can use at any stage whether you were just diagnosed or already have experience with ADHD.
ADHD in some areas is underdiagnosed, especially in girls and adults. This causes continued distress on the individual and in turn, delays treatment. Most guidance suggests that ADHD medication in conjunction with lifestyle changes and receiving proper social support are at the core of treatment. All of this treatment combined has been shown to enhance quality of life for individuals with ADHD.
Myth 3: ADHD is caused by bad parenting or lack of discipline
Parenting styles and strategies can influence a child's behavior, but they do not cause ADHD. Interventions with promotion of positive behavior can be effective in reducing the impact of ADHD on daily functioning.
Calling out and disproving myths surrounding ADHD can help in increasing awareness of how debilitating ADHD can be. As said above, ADHD isn’t an excuse for anything. It's a disorder that we will continue to learn to work with. By acknowledging this, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with ADHD.
In conclusion, these are just a few of the myths debunked within ADHD. There is still a crucial need for increased advocacy surrounding informing yourself and others of the facts of ADHD. This can be achieved through seeking counseling, independent research, or connecting with a professional. If you are interested in learning more about ADHD therapy with Catalyss Counseling, please click here to schedule a consultation.
How We Can Help
We have an amazing adhd support group!
For those who would like to connect with other like minded people with ADHD or ADHD symptoms, and build a sense of community / support.
Interested in registering for the group? Fantastic! Please use the link below to get more information and sign up.
If you are looking for general support, or if you would like to talk to someone more about how we can help you, follow these simple steps:
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Other Therapy Services Available at Catalyss Counseling:
Here at Catalyss Counseling, we want to meet all of your counseling needs in the Denver area. Our supportive therapists provide depression counseling, therapy for caregiver stress, grief and loss therapy, stress management counseling and more. We also have specialists in trauma and PTSD, women's issues, pregnancy and postpartum depression or anxiety, pregnancy loss and miscarriage, and birth trauma. For therapists, we can also provide clinical supervision! We look forward to connecting with you to help support your journey today.
Author Biography
Marie Clyne is a licensed social worker and provider at Catalyss Counseling. Her focus centers around adults struggling with Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD. Marie's passion lies in getting to know you, who you want to be, and working together to help translate those goals into reality. Follow Catalyss Counseling on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.