At one point in time or another, just about everyone has heard the phrase attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While many people assume that it applies only to those who are too hyper to sit still, that isn't the case. ADHD affects more than just your ability to concentrate. To help you understand more about this condition, take a look at some of the common misconceptions below.
ADHD doesn't affect adults.
If you were diagnosed as being ADHD when you were a child, there is a good chance that you are going to struggle with it when you get older. It isn't something that simply goes away on its own. However, the symptoms in adults and children tend to present themselves differently, so it can be deceiving. The inability to concentrate that affects you as a child will get worse as you grow up because of all the demands placed on you as an adult. Many adults tend to feel as if they have to be on the go all the time. They struggle with concentrating on one task or another at work because they can't seem to deal with all of those boring details that their job involves.
All individuals with ADHD are hyperactive.
While hyperactivity might be the most obvious symptom for some, it doesn't exist in others. In those that have always been hyper, there is a chance that it might not be as severe as you grow older. Some individuals simply struggle with forgetfulness, disorganization, distractibility and poor time management. These individuals are simply inattentive and not hyperactive. Everyone is different, which means the symptoms are going to vary from one individual to another.
People with ADHD aren't trying hard enough.
Everyone deals with obstacles in their life. When you have ADHD, it makes the little things that much harder. People who deal with ADHD have had to try harder at everything they do for as long as they can remember. They just might not have a lot to show for themselves because of how much longer it took them to do things. It is important that those with ADHD get treatment from mental health counselors like Dr. Stephen Brown & Associates to help them learn how to overcome the struggles in life. Learning coping strategies can go a long way in helping.
Once you know what you are dealing with, you can easily work to overcome the misconceptions of ADHD and move on to understand and empathize with those you may know who suffer from this disorder.
