11/10/2025
READ THE CAPTION FOR THE NUANCE ⬇️
1️⃣”ADHD is overdiagnosed”
First, let me clarify that overdiagnosis refers to a correct diagnosis that will likely not be a threat to a person’s health. On the other hand, misdiagnosis is an incorrect diagnosis.
People often say ADHD is overdiagnosed because it is true that diagnoses have increased over time, and it is possible that some people diagnosed with ADHD have been misdiagnosed. Much of this increase is due to increased awareness, as well as diagnosing cases who may have been previously missed.
2️⃣”They’re smart, they can’t have ADHD”
ADHD does not directly affect intelligence. Approximately 15% of people with High IQs also meet ADHD criteria.
3️⃣”They just need to burn some energy off”
A lot of people say that for kids to be less hyperactive, they just need to burn more energy and spend time outside. I want to make it clear that physical activity and exercise are very important for overall well-being, and it’s important to ensure your child is getting the right amount of activity.
At the same time, research on exercise has found that its effects are relatively short-term (e.g., 20 minutes) and small. They primarily appear to improve executive functioning (e.g., inhibitory control, working memory) and have less of an effect on hyperactivity and impulsivity. Exercise can be utilized as a short-term way to improve attention, but it isn’t considered a treatment that will have long-lasting effects on all ADHD symptoms.
💬 Have a question about any of these social media myths and what the science says? Let me know in the comments!
For more ADHD resources and science-based tools, head to the link in my bio to learn about my ADHD parenting course for parents of kids and teens.
References for research articles can be found by searching these PMIDs: 30780065, 37929569, 32039694, 39931282
