5 Common Myths About ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) 12-07-2021
By: Camila Hasbún
The ability to pay attention is one of the most complex and refined processes that our brain is able to achieve. In order for it to be able to pay attention in a full, conscious and sustained way, multiple networks of neurons are merged into an arduous work, which consumes large amounts of cognitive energy and a brain working to the utmost perfection. Although for most people, this ability to focus and sustain attention is relatively easy and automatic, for about 0.1-8.1% of the world's population this can be really challenging. This is the approximate number of the prevalence of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in the world, considered one of the most prevalent and known in terms of childhood age. This reduces a person's ability to control their actions and concentrate without being distracted. Her fame has given rise to certain misunderstandings regarding her concept, diagnosis and intervention that must be dismantled and clarified. I share with you 5 common myths that we usually hear about ADHD, and that are not condoned by science:
1. ADHD is not a medical condition, people with attention deficit just have to try a little harder.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, that is, it has its origins in the brain. It is a medical condition in its entirety, since the science supports significant differences in brain function of children, adolescents or adults with an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. There has been a total reduction in brain volume, decreased activation in areas that regulate attention and motivation, deficiency of neurotransmitters that regulate attention, limited activation in areas that promote speed of information, among many other traits that transcend the "will" and "effort" to stay seated or sustain attention.
2. All children with ADHD look the same: Attempts and hyperactivity.
The reality is that the great complexity in diagnosis is this very fact: two children who meet the diagnostic criteria can look and behave in completely different ways. While some are aerial, inattentive, timid, distracted, others can be defiant, hyperactive, energetic, and others can show up with both traits. Their assessment results may also give results that differ, as the traits of ADHD are varied, broad, and complex by nature.
3. ADHD is easy and quick to diagnose. Just a few questions is enough.
Because attention is the most sensitive cognitive process to be affected by the environment, ADHD is, in fact, one of the most difficult to make a diagnosis. Multiple factors must be taken into account: family system, emotional state, learning problems, sleep quality, neurological disorders, traumas, social relationships, developmental details, among many others. It is impossible to be accurate in a diagnosis if the professional "skips" steps or uses reduced sources of information.
4. ADHD can appear and develop at any stage of life.
The essence of ADHD is based on brain function, so at least, traits and some deterioration should be evident in childhood. The disorder does not appear drastically in adolescence or adulthood, although it may become more annoying, it should always be returned to childhood to consider a diagnosis.
5. Medication for ADHD is a medical exaggeration and is unnecessary .
Because of the lack of certain neurotransmitters and deficiency in brain function, certain ADHD must be treated with medication, which only provides the brain with what it biologically lacks to function better.Medication should be regulated by a specialist, who manages doses and evaluates side effects, considering what is appropriate for the particular individual. In some cases, depending on the severity, other methods are also possible and effective.
