Understanding the truth about ADHD can change everything — for patients, families, and relationships.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulsivity, time management, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. It’s often misunderstood — especially in adults.
This leaflet explores common myths about adult ADHD and presents the facts, so that you — and those around you — can better understand what ADHD is and isn’t.
MYTH #1:
“ADHD is just a childhood condition.”
FACT: ADHD often starts in childhood, but many people carry symptoms into adulthood. In fact, it is frequently missed in children, especially girls, and diagnosed later in life.
MYTH #2:
“People with ADHD just need to try harder.”
FACT: ADHD isn’t about laziness or lack of effort. It’s a difference in how the brain regulates attention, emotion, and motivation. People with ADHD often try harder than most, but struggle with consistency.
MYTH #3:
“ADHD is all about hyperactivity.”
FACT: Hyperactivity is only one part of ADHD — and many adults don’t experience it. Inattention, forgetfulness, disorganisation, low motivation, and emotional overwhelm are often the most disabling features in adulthood.
MYTH #4:
“Adults can’t get ADHD — it’s just stress or poor time management.”
FACT: ADHD is a neurological condition, not a character flaw. While stress and poor organisation can affect anyone, ADHD creates persistent, lifelong patterns of difficulty in multiple areas.
MYTH #5:
“If someone can focus on games or hobbies, they can’t have ADHD.”
FACT: ADHD brains often hyperfocus on stimulating or rewarding activities. The problem isn’t focusing — it’s regulating attention. Many people with ADHD swing between hyperfocus and inattention.
MYTH #6:
“Medication is a crutch or a quick fix.”
FACT: ADHD medication is evidence-based and can be life-changing for many. It’s not a cure, but it can dramatically improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and enhance quality of life — especially when combined with lifestyle changes and support.
MYTH #7:
“ADHD isn’t a real disability.”
FACT: ADHD is recognised under the Equality Act 2010 in the UK as a disability when it impacts daily functioning. It is a legitimate, neurobiological condition backed by decades of research.
MYTH #8:
“Everyone gets distracted sometimes — that doesn’t mean they have ADHD.”
FACT: While occasional distraction is normal, ADHD involves chronic, impairing, and developmentally inappropriate levels of difficulty across multiple settings (work, relationships, home life).
MYTH #9:
“ADHD is caused by bad parenting.”
FACT: ADHD is not caused by parenting. It is highly heritable and influenced by brain development and genetic factors. Parenting style does not cause ADHD, though it can shape how symptoms are managed.
MYTH #10:
“People with ADHD can’t be successful.”
FACT: Many successful people live with ADHD — artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders. With the right support, people with ADHD can thrive. But untreated ADHD can increase the risk of job loss, burnout, financial struggles, and strained relationships.
What Families and Partners Need to Know
ADHD is real. It’s not an excuse — it’s an explanation.
Emotional regulation can be harder for adults with ADHD.
People with ADHD often feel shame, guilt, or frustration about how their brain works.
Compassion, structure, and support go a long way.
Encouraging diagnosis and treatment can transform lives.
How You Can Help Your Loved One
Learn more — read, watch videos, join support groups.
Don’t take things personally — ADHD can affect emotional responses and memory.
Help with reminders or routines if asked — but avoid micromanaging.
Celebrate strengths, not just shortcomings.
Encourage treatment and self-advocacy.
Final Thought
ADHD is not a failure of will — it’s a different way of being wired. With the right understanding, support, and strategies, adults with ADHD — and those who love them — can experience real, lasting change.