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Myths About ADHD

/ By / Dual Diagnosis, Family Therapy, Mental Health, Mental Health Treatment, Resources

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health disorder for adults and children alike. In 2020, there were a reported 366.33 million adults around the world that were affected by ADHD.1 If you or someone you love has been impacted—you’re not alone. What can make the diagnosis harder, though, are some of the myths commonly associated with it. False ideas about mental health concerns can lead to misunderstanding, and it makes it difficult for people living with conditions like ADHD to get the treatment they need. October is ADHD Awareness Month, and it’s a great time to make learning the facts about ADHD a priority. 

At Right Step Hill Country, we offer the education and support that our clients need to understand what ADHD is and what it isn’t. Understand the complexities of ADHD and get high-quality mental health treatment near San Antonio at Hill Country. Call us at 1.844.675.1628.  

Your best life begins with proper diagnosis and treatment. 

What ADHD Is 

ADHD Awareness Month is an appropriate time to dismantle myths that cloud understanding and weaken the amount of support that those living with ADHD deserve. Before talking about what ADHD isn’t, it’s important to know what it is. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by biological factors and its symptoms can vary from person to person. However, the symptoms often include:  

Inattention 

  • Difficulty sustaining attention – Trouble focusing on tasks or activities, especially those that are not immediately rewarding. 
  • Careless mistakes – Frequent errors in schoolwork or other activities due to lack of attention to detail. 
  • Disorganization – Difficulty managing tasks and activities, often resulting in messy workspaces or missed deadlines. 
  • Avoidance of tasks – Reluctance to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort, like homework or lengthy projects. 
  • Forgetfulness – Frequently forgetting daily activities or losing items necessary for tasks, such as keys or school materials. 

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity 

  • Fidgeting – Constant movement or inability to stay seated in situations where it is expected. 
  • Excessive talking – Talking more than is typical, often interrupting others. 
  • Difficulty waiting – Impatience in waiting for turns or in line. 
  • Impulsive decisions – Acting without thinking about the consequences, which can lead to risky behaviors. 

These symptoms can manifest differently in each person and may change over time. If you suspect ADHD, it’s important to get a professional evaluation. Knowing for sure is your first step to learning practical and effective management strategies. 

What ADHD Isn’t 

By educating ourselves and others, we can foster a culture where individuals with ADHD feel empowered to seek the support they need. Understanding some of the myths about ADHD is a wonderful way to observe ADHD Awareness Month:  

4 Myths About ADHD 

  1. ADHD Is a Result of Poor Parenting 
    ADHD is a neurodivergent condition with roots in genetic and biological factors, not parenting styles. While specific parenting techniques can, indeed, help to manage symptoms, they are not the cause. ADHD involves complex brain interactions that are beyond the scope of parental influence. 
  2. All Children with ADHD Are Hyperactive 
    Hyperactivity is a hallmark symptom but not a universal one. Some individuals experience inattention without hyperactivity. These differing presentations mean that ADHD can often go unnoticed, especially in individuals whose symptoms do not fit the hyperactive mold.  
  3. ADHD Can Be Outgrown 
    While some individuals may see a reduction in symptoms as they age, ADHD is typically chronic. Adults with ADHD might still struggle with time management, organization, and maintaining focus.  
  4. Medication Is the Only Treatment for ADHD 
    Medication can be beneficial, but it is not the sole solution. Treatment for ADHD often involves a multifaceted approach, including behavioral therapy, lifestyle modifications, and support systems.  

Hill Country provides mental health treatment for the San Antonio area with a comprehensive suite of services, ensuring individuals with ADHD receive tailored care. 

ADHD Treatment at Hill Country 

Misunderstandings can lead to misdiagnosis, inadequate support, and unnecessary hardships for those affected. By spreading knowledge and understanding, we can create a more supportive environment that encourages individuals to seek the help they need without any stigma attached. 

At Promises Right Step Hill Country, we offer specialized mental health services designed to support individuals with ADHD. Our holistic approach encompasses therapy, counseling, and lifestyle strategies to help manage symptoms effectively. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care.  

Call Hill Country Today for Help Managing the Symptoms of ADHD 

ADHD is not just something that affects kids, and it’s not the result of bad parenting. ADHD is a lifelong condition and is fully treatable. If you’re seeking to learn more about ADHD during ADHD Awareness Month or need treatment, call 1.844.675.1628 to speak with a member of our team. Or, submit our online contact form.  

Source: 

  1. Journal of Global Health – The prevalence of adult attention hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis  ↩︎
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