The lack of physical evidence in the diagnosis process of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has lead to an increase in the belief that the condition doesn’t really exist. Children with ADHD can be left untreated since people view them as just badly behaved kids in need of more discipline. On the flip side, children who are in need of more discipline and structure in their lives can be misdiagnosed as having ADHD and medicated unnecessarily. In response to this, OnlineClasses.org debunks the top ten myths surrounding ADHD, here are a few of them.
1. ADHD isn’t a real problem, but a moneymaking scheme devised by drug companies. In truth, ADHD is a recognized disorder by the American Psychiatric Association, Centers for Disease Control, American Medical Association and National Institutes of Health.
2. ADHD is an excuse for a child’s misbehavior. ADHD isn’t just about being hyperactive. Symptoms include difficulty focusing, difficulty learning, difficulty completing a task, listening problems, confusion, disorganization, excessive talking and poor impulse control.
3. Stricter Discipline can solve childhood ADHD. Since it is a relatively new condition, ADHD is often seen as a generational problem and that children today need stricter rules, which in some cases is true. However, children with ADHD lack impulse control and harsh punishment can backfire. Patience is key for parents, teachers and caregivers.
4. ADHD medications create a drugged, vacant child. Physicians closely monitor side effects of ADHD medications and the dosage can be easily modified to fit the needs of the child. Treatment varies from person to person.
5. ADHD is limited to children. Children with ADHD move into adulthood still battling the condition. In fact, some people aren’t properly diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Many adults with ADHD suffer job instability and a lack of career fulfillment, which affects their quality of life.
ADHD is a commonly misunderstood condition that millions of people face each day of their lives. A better understanding of ADHD will lead to lives that are more successful for those living with it.