3 Common Myths About ADHD (and the Truth Behind Them)
When it comes to ADHD, misinformation is everywhere. These myths can create stigma, confusion, and frustration for those living with ADHD—and for the people who love them. Additionally, these myths can lead to people thinking that there’s something wrong with their character rather than a difference in how their brains work. This is especially true for women who were often missed as children. Let’s bust three common myths and look at the facts instead.
Myth #1:Hyperfocus Means No ADHD
Fact:
People with ADHD can hyperfocus on activities that are highly stimulating or rewarding, like video games, because these trigger dopamine pathways linked to attention and motivation. The challenge comes with sustaining focus on tasks that feel boring or repetitive, where dopamine activity is lower. It’s not laziness—it’s about how the ADHD brain processes rewards differently.
Cambridge University: Dopamine and ADHD
Myth #2: ADHD is Always Hyperactive
Fact:
Not all ADHD is loud or bouncy. There are three main presentations: hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive, and combined. Some people are restless in their minds rather than their bodies, struggling more with attention and organization than with movement. ADHD is about regulating attention and impulses, not just whether someone is fidgety.
CDC: Types of ADHD
Myth #3:ADHD is Laziness
Fact:
ADHD is a recognized neurodevelopmental condition, not a character flaw. What you don’t see are the hidden struggles: losing track of time, forgetfulness, trouble switching tasks, sensory overload, and rejection sensitivity. The behaviors you notice on the outside are just the tip of the iceberg of what’s happening internally.
National Institute of Mental Health: What is ADHD?
The Bottom Line
ADHD is complex, and no two people experience it the same way. By challenging these myths, we can create more compassion and understanding. If you’ve ever wondered whether ADHD might be behind your struggles with focus, organization, or overwhelm, know that you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Ready to separate myths from reality? Reach out and get clarity on ADHD in your life.