Busting The Adult ADHD Myths

There sure are alot of myths about ADHD, especially when it come to ADHD adults. Here are some of the most common myths and the truth about them:

Myth #1: It is not possible to accurately diagnose ADD and ADHD in adults. While it is true that there is no single test that will diagnose this disorder, there are very clear and formal documented symptoms in the DSM-IV. These documented symptoms, listed by the American Psychiatric Association, have been researched, studied and evaluated. With this reliable source and other cross-references, current methods of diagnosing ADHD are very accurate.

Myth #2: Children outgrow ADHD. This myth is totally inaccurate and untrue. It has been found in a number of studies that ADHD is a neurobiological disorder that has to do with brain wiring. Although symptoms may not appear to be as severe in adulthood, ADHD is clearly a life-long disorder. This has been shown through several follow-up studies of persons suffering from ADHD. Moreover, it is important to realize that if ADHD is not diagnosed, it causes other emotional and psychological problems, such as depression and anxiety.

Myth #3: If you are a bright or intelligent person, you cannot have ADHD. This is totally untrue. In fact, individuals with ADHD tend to be higher in intelligence than much of the average public. ADHD has nothing to do with intelligence; it is a disorder involving the regulation of attention, and affects how well you can sit there and get things done, or how well you can listen to your boss or teacher. ADHD has nothing to do with how bright you are - Albert Einstein is thought to have had ADD!

Myth #4: You do not have ADHD because it was not apparent in your childhood. Unless you were the child bouncing off the walls during classes, it is highly probable that even if you do suffer from ADHD, this went unnoticed at school. Adults with ADHD without hyperactivity are prime suspects for not appearing to have ADHD. Many people with inattentive ADHD internalize their symptoms. Often, people do not associate this with the picture of hyperactivity or restlessness.

Myth #5: Everybody has ADDD symptoms sometimes, so why the diagnosis? This is like saying that everyone can get depressed, so why diagnose clinical depression? Yes, it is true that sometimes average people feel distracted, have a lack of focus and maybe some of the other ADHD symptoms. What is important is the degree that this is occurring and the duration of the symptoms, and if they are having significant problems performing tasks and activities that other people their age do not have issues with.

Adults only seek a diagnosis because ADHD is causing a problem. Often, when an adult is diagnosed with ADhD, they are relieved, as they realize that they do not have to entirely blame themselves for their struggles, and can seek treatment and move on in life.