To ensure individuals receive appropriate care and support, it’s crucial to separate facts from myths. Below are some common myths and facts explained by a psychiatrist at Wales Psychiatry Centre, a leading clinic providing advanced ADHD treatment in Cardiff.

Myth 1: Medications for ADHD Are Addictive

ADHD medications differ in formulation and release time, but most contain Methylphenidate or Amphetamine. While both substances can be addictive, addiction risk depends on how the medication is used. Rapid brain entry (as in injected or inhaled forms) can cause addictive effects, but prescribed oral medications do not.

Fact: ADHD stimulant medications are safe and effective when used as prescribed. They do not cause addiction in therapeutic use.

Myth 2: ADHD Sufferers Are Lazy

ADHD symptoms such as disorganization and difficulty focusing are often mistaken for laziness. However, individuals with ADHD may struggle to start and complete tasks that seem “simple” to others, despite genuine motivation to succeed.

Even routine activities—like checking mail or replying to emails—can feel overwhelming due to the sustained mental effort required. This misconception can harm self-esteem and confidence, discouraging people from pursuing goals.

Fact: People with ADHD want to focus but struggle with attention regulation, motivation, and impulse control—not laziness.

Myth 3: ADHD Occurs Only in Boys

Boys are diagnosed two to three times more frequently than girls and often at a younger age. Researchers continue to explore whether this difference is biological or due to diagnostic bias and symptom variation. Even with similar symptoms, boys and men are more likely to be referred for help, while girls and women often remain undiagnosed.

Fact: Although diagnosis is made more often in boys, about 4.2% of girls are diagnosed with ADHD during their lives.

Myth 4: ADHD is Caused by Parenting Styles

Some adults with ADHD bring their parents to therapy sessions, where parents often express guilt for not doing enough during their child’s development.
This stems from the mistaken belief that ADHD results from “bad parenting.”

In reality, structure is crucial for individuals with ADHD. Stricter parenting may make children more anxious or hyperactive, but there is no clear cause-and-effect relationship between parenting and ADHD. Research shows that while family environments and parenting practices can influence symptom expression, they do not cause ADHD.

Punishing children for symptoms like impulsivity or restlessness can be harmful. Professional therapies, such as medication and psychotherapy, are effective management options.

Fact: ADHD results from neurodevelopmental differences, not parenting. Brain chemistry, environment, and heredity all contribute. A supportive atmosphere helps manage symptoms but neither cures nor causes the disorder.

Myth 5: ADHD is Not a Real Medical Condition

The brains of people with and without ADHD differ, as do the ways neurotransmitters like glutamate, dopamine, and norepinephrine function. The brain areas involved in ADHD are essential for executive functions—including organizing, planning, and initiating tasks.

Fact: ADHD is a recognized neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in brain activity and structure. It is not a weakness in character.

ADHD Treatment at Wales Psychiatry Centre

Dr. Sakhuja and his team provide expert diagnosis and evidence-based treatment options for managing ADHD effectively.

📞 Book a consultation with Dr. Raman Sakhuja today for professional insight and personalized ADHD management.