How not to stigmatize ADHD

There are some commonly believed misconceptions about ADHD that can be very hurtful and harmful to those who live with the effects of this condition.

Some people inaccurately believe ADHD is a made up disorder, or that it is over-diagnosed and over-medicated. Others perceive ADHD as inconsequential, or something that can be handled by "firm" parenting, and will resolve in adulthood. These kinds of beliefs or statements can discourage people who are living with ADHD from seeking help or getting treatment that can improve their relationships, their success in their careers, their general mental/physical health, and their overall quality and satisfaction in life.

ADHD is a real condition with recognizable symptoms that affect a person's ability to function. Like most conditions, there is a spectrum of effects, from mild to severe

Some common symptoms experienced by adults with ADHD

Distractibility

Inattention

Forgetfulness

Impulsiveness

Low frustration tolerance

Mood swings

Difficulty with planning and executing tasks

Difficulty with time management

Don't dismiss or minimize the condition

It's important to not minimize or outright deny ADHD by saying things like "ADHD isn't serious, or it isn't even a real condition"

Just as you shouldn't deny ADHD, we also should not attempt to minimize the symptoms. "oh, everyone has ADHD these days, or "I had an ADHD moment"

We all experience moments of forgetfulness, distraction or inattention, those are normal occurrences; however, for people diagnosed with ADHD these are much more than an occasional problem.

*side note*

this applies for other mental health conditions as well, its not appropriate to make comments that may trivialize any mental health disorders

For example...

"I am OCD about keeping my car clean, or "She is so OCD about her housework"

OCD is also a very real, often debilitating condition. Making comment such as these can be offensive and invalidating to those who live with the disorder.

Avoid criticizing symptoms and behaviour

Sometimes people assume if someone who has ADHD would just "try harder," they could be more successful.

Please don't make comments such as "They are just lazy and need to try harder."

It is common for someone with ADHD to experience inconsistencies in their performance which can be puzzling to others. This inconsistent pattern of productivity is related to impairments associated with the disorder.

People with ADHD exert a tremendous amount of mental energy and effort trying to organize, focus, and keep themselves on track.

Living with ADHD can be challenging. People living with ADHD are tasked with the same levels of responsibility and stress in life that all adults face, but with added complication.

Please take a moment to read the brief analogy I have linked here for a better understanding of what it can be like living with symptoms of ADHD

Ways we can influence others and reduce stigma related to ADHD and other mental health conditions

Get educated about mental illness, including substance use disorders

Be aware of our own attitudes and behaviour

Examine our thinking, reinforced by upbringing and society

Choose our words carefully. The way we speak can affect the attitudes of others

Educate others, challenge myths and stereotypes

Focus on the positive. Mental health issues are only one part of anyone's larger picture

Treat everyone with dignity and respect; offer support and encouragement