ADHD Is Real. So Why Do So Many People Still Judge It?
If you have ADHD and have been told multiple times by people that "you're just lazy" or "just focus," then you know the pain of stigma. ADHD is real - so why is there so much judgment?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is by far one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Recent research has found that around 22 million people (including adults and children) have been diagnosed with ADHD. Despite growing awareness, many people still hold incorrect misconceptions about what ADHD is.
Common Myths About ADHD
ADHD isn't real - everybody gets distracted
ADHD is caused by too much screen time
People with ADHD are just lazy and unmotivated
The truth is ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts one's emotional regulation, time management, and the way we process the world around us.
What ADHD Actually Looks Like
For some individuals, ADHD symptoms lessen as they age, while others carry them in their adulthood. It is essential to acknowledge that ADHD doesn't look the same for everyone; however, some common symptoms include:
Trouble multitasking
Frequent mood swings
Problems finishing a task
Excessive activity/restlessness
Impulsivity
Forgetfulness
Why ADHD Stigma Is So Harmful
Not only does stigma create emotional pain, but it creates barriers, reinforces misinformation, silences people, negatively impacts access to support.
Stigma is especially harmful to women, BIPOC communities, and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals who are often misdiagnosed due to how ADHD presents in different genders and cultures. This means that many do not get the support they deserve and need.
Why Is ADHD Still So Misunderstood
There are many reasons why ADHD is still misunderstood; some include
Lack of understanding - confuse it with being lazy and disorganized
Cultural and systemic bias - overlooked for people of colour and those from lower-income backgrounds
Media misrepresentation - portrayed as a joke or exaggeration
How You Can Support Someone with ADHD
Educate yourself - sharing accurate information and correcting stereotypes.
Encourage access to support - connect with a therapist to get individual counselling to help work through challenges.
Advocate for accommodations - extra time, quiet spaces, flexible deadlines.
Encourage their strengths - focus on what they are doing well, not just where they struggle.
If you’re searching for “ADHD therapy near me”, you are not alone. Riley Counselling offers dedicated support for those seeking an adult ADHD therapist.
