Misconceptions about ADHD
By Richard Brousseau
Understanding ADHD: More Than Just a Childhood Disorder
When I first started working at Healing from Within as the Practice Coordinator, I didn’t know much about ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Like many people, I thought ADHD was mainly something children struggled with, a phase they would grow out of. But I’ve learned a lot since then, and what surprised me the most was not only how common ADHD is but also that it affects people of all ages—not just children.
A Common Misconception
One of the biggest misconceptions about ADHD is that it’s a disorder only kids have. You’ve probably heard the stereotype—an overly energetic child who can’t sit still or focus. But what’s less commonly known is that ADHD doesn’t magically disappear when someone reaches adulthood. In fact, many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD for years, sometimes even decades, before realizing what’s been affecting their ability to stay organized, focused, or manage their time.
Seeing how ADHD impacts adults just as much as children was an eye-opener for me. In some cases, adults with ADHD may have learned to manage their symptoms in ways that mask the disorder, or they may have been misdiagnosed with other conditions like anxiety or depression. Others might go through life feeling like they’re constantly “failing” at staying on top of things without understanding why.
ADHD is More Than Hyperactivity
Another thing I learned is that ADHD doesn’t always look like hyperactivity. Many people think of it as just someone who can’t sit still, but there’s so much more to it. Some people with ADHD are very calm on the outside but struggle with focus and attention on the inside. This can manifest in ways like procrastination, difficulty completing tasks, or constantly feeling distracted, no matter how much they want to focus. These aren’t just minor annoyances; for someone with ADHD, they can be significant barriers to everyday life.
At Healing from Within, I’ve had the chance to see how ADHD can affect people in different ways. For some, it’s about managing impulsivity, while for others, it’s about organizing thoughts and staying on task. It can be overwhelming, especially when misconceptions make people feel like they’re simply “not trying hard enough.” The reality is, ADHD is a neurological condition, not a lack of effort.
Recognizing the Signs at Any Age
What I found particularly surprising is how often ADHD goes undiagnosed in adults. From what I’ve learned, many adults can go years feeling "off" or struggling with focus and organization without realizing that ADHD could be the underlying cause.
This highlights an important truth—ADHD is not just a childhood issue, and it's something that can affect people at any stage of life. Recognizing the signs and symptoms, whether in yourself or others, is crucial in understanding the broader impact ADHD can have.
Final Thoughts
Working at Healing from Within has opened my eyes to the reality of ADHD and how many people it touches. What I’ve learned is that ADHD is far more complex and widespread than I ever realized. It’s not something that only affects children, and it doesn’t always look the way we expect.
Understanding ADHD helps break down the stigma, so people feel empowered to seek the support they need, whether they’re five or fifty.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog reflects my personal observations and learning as a Practice Coordinator. It is not intended to be professional advice or a clinical opinion. For a professional diagnosis or treatment of ADHD, please consult a licensed healthcare provider.