Common ADHD Myths As such a recently discovered disorder, there have been many myths and misunderstandings that have developed surrounding ADHD. The following are a few of the more common ones that should be clarified both among the ADHD and non-ADHD world. Myth #1 ADHD Isn t a Disorder, Only a Lack of Discipline and Good Parenting many people still seem to believe that all ADHD children require is old-fashioned discipline and their symptoms will go away. This is an extremely damaging impression for sufferers of ADHD and their families. It makes them feel a shame and guilt that is completely undeserved. Furthermore, it makes the ADHD sufferer feel as though s/he is somehow a bad child. Though disciplinary treatments have been tried in several different cases and methods, by providing more discipline to ADHD children, their cases actually worsened, rather than improved. Myth #2 ADHD Learn to Make Excuses Instead of Accepting Responsibility for Their Actions educators, therapists, and physicians consistently teach ADHD children that their disorder is a challenge, not an excuse. While medications and/or glyconutrients are usually used to correct the chemical imbalance related to ADHD, it is also important that children receive behavioral therapy to help them adapt to meet society s responsibilities, instead of making excuses to avoid them. Myth #3 Teachers Would Rather Push Pills on Kids Than Deal with Overactive, Inattentive Students Teachers have the best interests of their students in mind when they make decisions and offer advice. They spend a great deal of time every day with their classes and witness the achievements and the struggles. Teachers don t routinely push pills; if they see an attention or concentration problem, they offer information to the parents who can seek appropriate diagnosis. Myth #4 Helping Children with Attention Difficulties Works Better than Medications though children with ADHD may achieve better when they receive extra help from teachers than when they do not, it is not the solution to the problem, it is only a few extra grades. By treating ADHD children with a combination of medications, behavioral therapies, and extra help in the classroom, a child can achieve much greater results. The teacher alone cannot cure ADHD symptoms. By understanding the difference between facts and myths about ADHD, we as a society will be much better prepared to offer the support and understanding that is required for a high quality of life among ADHD sufferers.