Myths vs. Facts: What People Get Wrong About ADHD
As a therapist who works closely with children, teens, and families navigating life with ADHD, I hear a lot of well-meaning but wildly inaccurate assumptions about what ADHD is—and what it isn’t. These myths don’t just cause confusion; they can lead to shame, delayed diagnosis, and ineffective support.
Let’s set the record straight. Here are some of the most common ADHD myths—and the research-backed truths that replace them.
Myth #1: ADHD is just bad parenting.
Fact: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, not a discipline issue.
The idea that a child with ADHD just needs “better parenting” is outdated and harmful. While structure, routine, and consistent expectations help all kids thrive, ADHD is rooted in brain differences related to attention, impulse control, and executive functioning. Parenting can support a child with ADHD—but it doesn’t cause or cure the condition.
Takeaway: You didn’t cause your child’s ADHD. With education, support, and the right tools, you can absolutely help them succeed.
Myth #2: Kids outgrow ADHD.
Fact: ADHD is lifelong for many people.
While hyperactivity might lessen over time, the core features of ADHD—like distractibility, impulsivity, and executive functioning struggles—can persist into adulthood. In fact, around 60-80% of kids with ADHD continue to experience symptoms as adults.
Takeaway: Kids don’t just “grow out of it”—they grow into new ways of managing it with the right support.
Myth #3: ADHD is over diagnosed.
Fact: ADHD is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed—especially in girls and adults.
Because ADHD doesn’t always look like bouncing off the walls, many kids—especially girls and those with inattentive symptoms—fly under the radar. Adults, too, often go undiagnosed for decades, chalking up their struggles to anxiety, burnout, or personality quirks.
Takeaway: Just because ADHD looks different in different people doesn’t mean it’s not real or valid.
Myth #4: ADHD medication is a quick fix—or a last resort.
Fact: Medication can be a helpful part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but it’s not the only tool.
Stimulant medication can reduce core symptoms in many kids, but it doesn’t teach skills or solve every challenge. The best outcomes come from combining medication (when needed) with behavioral therapy, coaching, school supports, and family education.
Takeaway: You don’t have to choose between meds or skills—you can do both thoughtfully and intentionally.
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Fact: ADHD isn’t a lack of motivation—it’s a difficulty regulating motivation.
People with ADHD often work twice as hard to stay on track, but their brains struggle with prioritizing tasks, breaking them into steps, or shifting gears. What might look like “laziness” is often a symptom of overwhelm or executive dysfunction.
Takeaway: Kids with ADHD usually want to do well—they just need support that works with their brain, not against it.
Final Thoughts
The more we understand ADHD, the more empowered we become to support the kids, teens, and families navigating it. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, replacing myths with facts is one of the most powerful ways we can reduce shame and increase success.
If you’re raising a child with ADHD and feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out solo.
Ready to learn more? Reach out today—we’d love to support you.
Chrissy Waters
I’m here to support the adults who play a pivotal role in the lives of neurodivergent children. My professional and personal experiences have given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges that come with raising and teaching kids who navigate the world differently.
Chrissy Waters, LPC, ADHD-CCSP
Grow Psychological
4701 College Blvd, Suite 115, Leawood, KS 66211