Debunking 3 Common ADHD Myths

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a real medical condition that can affect the person's quality of life. Unfortunately, most people do not understand this disorder even though it affects an estimated 11 percent of children and adults in America. This guide will explain the truth behind a few common myths associated with ADHD.

Caused by Poor Parenting

If you or someone you know has a child diagnosed with ADHD, you may believe it was caused by poor parenting. This belief can be difficult to understand, since the disorder causes children to act out inappropriately, talking too much, fidgeting, and finding it difficult to follow your basic commands.

In reality, ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, but determining the exact cause can be difficult.

Heredity plays a factor, so if you have family with ADHD, your child may develop the disorder, as well.

Different environmental factors may increase the risk of developing ADHD. For example, if you or your child were exposed to lead in paint, there is a higher risk of developing the disorder.

It's a Learning Disability

Another common myth people believe is that ADHD is a type of learning disability. This myth is also easy to believe, since many children, especially, with ADHD also have a learning disability. Plus, ADHD can affect a child's ability to learn. To understand this, you need to understand how ADHD affects a child.

ADHD causes restlessness, hyperactivity, fidgeting, and insomnia. These symptoms can affect your child's ability to sit, be quiet, focus to learn, and complete simple assignments in school and at home. Many children with ADHD also struggle to complete household chores and other mundane tasks. Taking out the trash or getting dressed can become time-consuming and aggravating for parents who have children with ADHD.

Again, while it can prevent your child from learning, ADHD should never be classified as an actual learning disability.

Kids Outgrow ADHD

It is common for many people to believe their children will eventually outgrow ADHD. Unfortunately, this is not true.

Most children with ADHD will still have the disorder as they grow into their adolescent and adult years. Even if they have been diagnosed and treated, their disorder will still follow them through life, resulting in them receiving the same treatment methods when they are adults.

If you believe you or your child has ADHD, contact a professional today, such as Michele Campione, M.D. From medications and therapy, there are many treatment options available to manage the disorder effectively.