Debunking Common Myths About ADHD: What You Need to Know
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is often characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD can impact daily life, academic performance, work, and personal relationships. If left untreated, it can sometimes also contribute to anxiety, low self-esteem, and difficulties managing responsibilities.
At MindfulMD Psychiatry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating adults with ADHD. While ADHD starts in childhood, there are a variety of reasons why someone may not be diagnosed until later in life. We have worked with with the full range of adults looking for answers about their symptoms, from young adults, college students, high-achieving career driven individuals, busy parents, and more. Whether you’re looking for a psychiatrist to address ongoing symptoms or seeking an ADHD evaulation as an adult, our clinic offers comprehensive psychiatric services to meet your needs. As a trusted psychiatrist in Tampa, Dr. Allison Jackson works closely with individuals from all walks of life to provide effective, personalized care.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is more than just difficulty focusing or staying organized. People with ADHD often experience challenges in regulating attention, managing time, or controlling impulses. It is divided into three types: Inattentive type (previously known as ADD), Hyperactive-Impulsive type, and the most common presentation Combined type. Some studies show that likely the majority of adult ADHD have prominently inattentive symptoms with most being diagnosed with inattentive or combined presentation.
Common Myths about ADHD
There are many misconceptions surrounding ADHD that can lead to misunderstanding and stigma for those living with the condition. It's important to separate fact from fiction to ensure people get the support they need. Let’s debunk some common myths about ADHD to provide clearer insights into this disorder.
Myth: ADHD isn’t a real disorder
Fact: ADHD is a recognized neurodevelopmental disorder with a well-established medical and scientific basis. There now been many studies to show the brain changes that occur with ADHD, as well as studies showing that it can run in families.Myth: ADHD only affects children
Fact: While ADHD does start in childhood, studies that followed children with ADHD show that it does persist into adulthood. 3/4 of adults ages 18-44 who are found to have ADHD were never diagnosed as children. There are a multitude of reasonings why an ADHD diagnosis may be missed during childhood. ADHD may be missed if a child has other psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety or depression, which can cause similar symptoms. There are also sometimes children who have great support systems or structured school environments which may allow them to be better at compensating for their symptoms. Symptoms may also change with age, hyperactivity often decreases as a person age, or they may learn to better manage it, while inattention and impulsivity often do not improve with age. At times, children with higher IQs may also be missed because these children with higher IQs with ADHD may do better in school than children with average or low IQs and ADHD, so they may go undiagnosed.Myth: ADHD is caused by poor parenting
Fact: ADHD is largely genetic and biological. It has a high heritability, estimated to be between 60% - 90%. Differences in dopamine receptors may increase the risk of ADHD. Parenting styles do not cause ADHD, though consistent structure and support can help manage symptoms.Myth: All kids with ADHD are hyperactive
Fact: ADHD has different types. Some people primarily struggle with inattention and are not hyperactive at all, especially females who may appear quiet or daydreaming.Myth: ADHD is just an excuse for laziness
Fact: While the name Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can be confusing, not all people with ADHD have hyperactivity symptoms. Inattentive Type ADHD is characterized by difficulties with focus, organization, and completing tasks, with symptoms like forgetfulness, distraction, issues staying on task and listening, and trouble with attention to detail. Formally Inattentive type ADHD was called ADD.Myth: ADHD medication is dangerous
Fact: This one is both true and false. ADHD meds can pose risks, such as side effects like increased cardiac risks, insomnia, or mood changes, especially if not carefully monitored. However, when managed by a knowledgeable psychiatrist, these meds can be administered safely with regular check-ups and dosage adjustments to minimize risks. Under professional supervision, ADHD meds can greatly improve focus, attention, and overall quality of life.Myth: People with ADHD can’t focus at all
Fact: People with ADHD can focus intensely on things that interest them, a phenomenon called "hyperfocus." However, they may struggle to focus on tasks that don’t hold their attention. With ADHD the issues isn’t that you have total inability to hold attention, it is more commonly that these people struggle to maintain control of their attention. Their attention can be distracted and pulled into something that they are excited about, while keeping attention on something they find boring can be a much more challenging task for people with ADHD. While we commonly associate this newer term “hyperfocusing” with ADHD, this is something that most humans do, so just because you find yourself hyperfocusing, this doesn’t mean it’s due to having ADHD.Myth: ADHD is overdiagnosed
Fact: While ADHD awareness has grown, this does not necessarily mean it’s being overdiagnosed. The increase in how many people being diagnosed with ADHD is thought to be due, at least partially, to improved screening by pediatricians and primary care doctors, not due to misdiagnosis. If you are wondering if you have ADHD, reaching out to a skilled psychiatrist and/or psychologist can be a great first step towards finding out a diagnosis.Myth: Only boys have ADHD
Fact: ADHD can occur in any gender. Newer studies are showing rates of ADHD are much closer between genders than previously thought. Especially when you include adulthood studies, prevalence of ADHD becomes very close to being equal. Some report that males are more likely to be diagnosed because females often show less obvious symptoms, such as showing more inattention rather than hyperactivity.There is also less available research on ADHD in females. Most of the early research focused on how ADHD effects males. Due to this, many providers may have some bias towards identifying ADHD more commonly in hyperactive male patients, while potentially overlooking the more internal inattentive symptoms that females with ADHD are more likely to demonstrate.
Various hormonal changes can also impact ADHD symptoms. For females, normal monthly fluctuations of hormone levels can have an impact on their ADHD symptoms. These can be hormonal changes such as what occurs during puberty, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. ADHD symptoms can worsen a few days before your period, when estrogen levels are lower. ADHD symptoms are usually more mild during and in the days after your period, this is when estrogen levels are higher. With males having a surge in testosterone during puberty, this can increase ADHD symptoms in boys.
Myth: People with ADHD can’t be successful
Fact: Many people with ADHD are very successful. Having ADHD does not equate to being lazy or being unintelligent. Many people with ADHD build impressive careers for themselves, obtain advanced degrees, and build very successful businesses. Getting there can be challenging for many people with untreated ADHD, at times these people may be having to spend double or triple the amount of time trying to complete tasks towards their goals compared to their peers. Examples we often see are these patients having to spend more time in the library compared to their peers to get to the same results, having to restart the same task multiple times due to inattention and getting distracted, and/or having to develop an elaborate system of work arounds to help them to manage their ADHD symptoms. With the right support, treatments, and coping strategies, individuals with ADHD can excel in their careers and personal lives.
Looking for a Psychiatrist to Help Clarify If You Have ADHD? Looking for an ADHD evaluation?
Recognizing the symptoms of ADHD can be challenging, especially since the disorder often overlaps with other mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Dr. Allison Jackson is committed to thorough evaluations and diagnostic processes to help you reach your mental health goals. As a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Jackson has spent many years working with experts in the fields of neuropsychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and ADHD psychiatry.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, Dr. Jackson provides:
Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessments: Dr. Jackson will conduct a detailed clinical evaluation to help determine if ADHD is the underlying cause of your challenges. This includes reviewing your past medical history, both your current symptoms as well as symptoms noted in your childhood years, understanding your current concerns and how they are affecting your life, and using validated screening tools.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Once a diagnosis is clarified, Dr. Jackson collaborates with her patients to develop an individualized treatment approach. Treatment may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both, depending on your symptoms.
Medication Management: Medications can be highly effective in managing ADHD symptoms. Because ADHD can have potential for dangerous side effects, Dr. Jackson works closely with her patients to find the right medication and correct dosage, adjusting treatment plans to minimize side effects and maximize benefits.
Support for Lifestyle Changes: ADHD can affect multiple areas of life, including work, school, and relationships. Dr. Jackson emphasizes holistic treatment, offering strategies for time management, organization, and stress reduction that support long-term success.
Taking the Next Step
ADHD is a manageable condition, and with the right support, you can thrive. Whether you’re seeking clarity on an ADHD diagnosis or looking for better ADHD treatment options, Dr. Allison Jackson at MindfulMD Psychiatry is here to help. Don’t let ADHD hold you back—reach out today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a better, more focused life.
**Disclaimer: This Website Does Not Provide Medical Advice**
The content of this website, such as graphics, images, text and all other materials, is provided for reference and educational purposes only. The content is not meant to be complete or exhaustive or to be applicable to any specific individual's medical condition. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition, treatment options, or starting a new health regimen. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on this site. Always consult with your qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice without delay regardless of anything read on this website.
