Related & Co-existing Conditions
ADHD rarely ever exists by itself. Many people have co-existing conditions and issues such as:
- learning disorders
- speech problems
- conduct disorders
- depression and anxiety problems
- poor self esteem
- difficulties with assertiveness
- poor social skills
Some Myths About ADHD
Perception |
Reality |
ADHD is not a real disorder:"We never heard of ADHD when I was a kid" |
ADHD is a hereditary condition and has been recognised since the early 1900s. In the past it was known by other names such as minimal brain dysfunction and hyperactivity disorder. |
Bad parenting is responsible for ADHD:"They need to be disciplined" |
Poor parenting skills can lead to bad behaviour in any child, but it cannot cause ADHD. Parenting children with ADHD is challenging, however, family support and education can provide valuable aid in the effective management of ADHD. |
ADHD is just about hyperactivity:"They're just out of control" |
Not all children with ADHD are hyperactive. Remember the 'AD' part of 'ADHD' stands for Attention Deficit. Difficulties concentrating in a 'quiet' child can lead to serious problems with schooling and relationships, even though the child might not attract attention through hyperactivity. |
It's just a childhood disorder:"They'll grow out of it" |
Many people believe that children will grow out of ADHD. In fact, when not treated appropriately those with ADHD are at a much greater risk of failures in school, employment, social relationships and developing low self-esteem. They are also at double the risk of forming a substance abuse. |
Poor diet causes ADHD:"it's too much red cordial" |
Food sensitivities can often produce symptoms similar to ADHD but do not cause the disorder. People with ADHD and food sensitivities can experience a worsening of their symptoms if they consume certain foods. Dietary management can be a complementary therapy in conjunction with recommended treatments. |
Recommended Reading
More Attention, Less Deficit
By Ari Tuckman
Attention Deficit Disorder - the unfocussed mind
By Dr. Thomas E. Brown. PhD
Journeys through ADDulthood - Discover a new sense of identity and meaning with ADHD By Sari Solden
Books By Thorn Hartmann
ADD Success Stories
Attention Deficit Disorder - A Different Perception
Focus Your Energy: Success in Business with ADD
Books By Dr Lynn Weiss
Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults -A Different Way of Thinking
Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults - Practical help for sufferers & their spouses
A.D.D. and Creativity: Tapping Your Inner Muse
A.D.D. on the Job: Making Your A.D.D. Work for You
A.D.D. and Success
Books by Dr Edward M Hollowell & Dr John J Ratey
Driven To Distraction
Delivered From Distraction
Answers To Distraction
Add in the Workplace: Choices, Changes, and Challenges By Kathleen G. Nadeau
Honey Are You Listening? Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Your Marriage By Richard Fowler and Jerilyn Fowler
A Comprehensive Guide to ADD in Adults
Research, diagnosis, treatment
Edited by Kathleen G Nadeau, PhD
Scattered Minds: A New Look at the Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder by Gabor Mate
ADHD in Adults
By Paul H Wender, MD
You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?! A Self-Help Book for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder by Kate Kelly and Peggy Ramundo
