10 Common Myths About ADHD — And What You Should Know
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most misunderstood neurodevelopmental conditions — especially in adults. While public awareness has improved, many outdated beliefs still shape how people view themselves and how others treat them.
As a psychotherapist specialising in ADHD and neurodivergence, I hear these myths regularly from clients who have spent years blaming themselves before discovering the real reasons behind their struggles.
Let’s break down 10 of the most common myths about ADHD — and set the record straight.
1. Myth: ADHD is just hyperactivity
Truth: Many people with ADHD are quiet, thoughtful, and internalise their symptoms. Inattentive ADHD, especially, can go unnoticed for years — particularly in girls and adults.
2. Myth: ADHD is caused by bad parenting
Truth: ADHD is neurological, not behavioural. While environment plays a role, parenting doesn’t cause ADHD.
3. Myth: ADHD only affects children
Truth: ADHD doesn’t vanish at 18. In fact, many adults only recognise their symptoms later in life, often after years of being misdiagnosed or misunderstood.
4. Myth: Everyone’s a bit ADHD these days
Truth: Everyone gets distracted — but ADHD affects how a person regulates attention, memory, time, emotion, and focus every single day. It’s not a personality quirk — it’s a real, life-impacting difference in how the brain functions.
5. Myth: ADHD is just laziness or lack of motivation
Truth: Most people with ADHD work incredibly hard just to keep up. It’s not a motivation issue — it’s a challenge with regulation, not willpower.
6. Myth: If you can focus on games or Netflix, you don’t have ADHD
Truth: This is called hyperfocus — a well-known but often misunderstood trait of ADHD. It’s not about whether you can focus, but what your brain allows you to focus on.
7. Myth: ADHD is overdiagnosed
Truth: ADHD is underdiagnosed — especially in women, adults, and those who’ve learned to mask their difficulties. Many people live for decades without knowing why things have always felt harder.
8. Myth: You just need more discipline
Truth: ADHD affects how the brain organises, prioritises, and completes tasks. It’s not about caring less — it’s about how the brain processes effort, reward, and motivation.
9. Myth: Medication is dangerous or a quick fix
Truth: Medication isn’t for everyone — but for many, it’s a safe, supportive tool that helps manage symptoms. It’s not a cure or a shortcut. It’s one part of a bigger picture that can include therapy, coaching, lifestyle changes, and understanding.
10. Myth: You’ll grow out of it
Truth: ADHD doesn’t go away, but it can evolve. Many adults develop better strategies, but the core traits — and their impact — often remain. Support is still valid at any age.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve heard one or more of these myths and thought, “That sounds like me…”, you’re not alone.
At my therapy practice in Limerick (and online), I work with adults navigating ADHD, late diagnosis, and unmasking. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, exploring the possibility, or trying to make sense of long-standing struggles — support is available, and your experience is valid.
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