12/01/2025
5 Common Myths About ADHD
ADHD is often misunderstood. Many people still believe it is only about focus or hyperactivity, but the reality is much broader. ADHD influences how the brain manages attention, emotion, motivation, and planning. By clearing up myths, we can replace stigma with understanding and support.
Here are five common myths about ADHD that deserve to be challenged.
1. ADHD only affects kids
ADHD often continues into adulthood. Many adults go undiagnosed for years and only later realize that their struggles with focus, organization, or motivation were signs of ADHD. It is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, not something people simply grow out of.
2. People with ADHD just need to try harder
Effort is not the issue. ADHD affects the brain networks responsible for attention, planning, and regulation. Support, structure, and understanding make a far greater difference than willpower alone. With the right tools and strategies, people can thrive.
3. ADHD is overdiagnosed
ADHD is often misunderstood and actually underdiagnosed in many groups, including women, people of color, and high achieving individuals. Awareness and accurate assessment are key to ensuring people get the help they need.
4. Everyone with ADHD is hyperactive
Not everyone with ADHD is outwardly energetic or restless. Some people are quiet, daydreamy, or internally distracted. Inattention and overthinking can be just as challenging as visible hyperactivity. Recognizing these differences helps ensure that more people are properly identified and supported.
5. ADHD means you cannot focus
People with ADHD can focus intensely on things that deeply interest them. This state, called hyperfocus, shows that the challenge is not a lack of attention but regulating it. The ADHD brain can shift from scattered to laser sharp depending on engagement.
Understanding the truth about ADHD helps reduce stigma and fosters compassion. When we see ADHD for what it truly is, we move beyond labels and toward meaningful support and empowerment.
Whether you live with ADHD, care for someone who does, or simply want to understand it better, awareness is the first step toward empathy and change.
If this message resonates with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful. Every conversation helps build understanding and reduce stigma.
📌 Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health care. If you are experiencing distress or need help, please consult with a licensed clinician or call emergency services.
Grit Mindset Therapy | Psychologist specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression in Mountain View, CA
Munn Saechao, PsyD, LCSW, PPSC
