The myths surrounding ADHD are not just about the disorder but also on every aspect surrounding it. There have been many who have in the past and even today are still are working to dispel these myths about ADHD. The goal is to educate patients, parents, and educators and help the affected get to a doctor. ADHD needs to be treated as the person and the people around them have issues day in and day out that need to be addressed. Some of the myths that hold people from taking help or approaching a doctor are the ones surrounding the medication that is prescribed for ADHD.

1. Medication for ADHD can lead to addiction
There are about five types of medication that are licensed to be used for the treatment of ADHD. There are some side effects and for children, doctors prescribe small doses. People with ADHD are treated with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy and psychiatric counseling if required. Hence, there is hardly any additional risk that persons with ADHD can become addicted to any substance. Studies show that they are at a lower risk when compared to others to become dependent on alcohol or substances.

2. ADHD medication cannot change behavior
Medications that have been in use for the last 5 decades or so has convincingly proved that they have helped to calm patients with ADHD. These medications have helped them to be less impulsive, better at anger management. They also help patients to stay focused and attentive.

3. ADHD medication can be shared
ADHD medication is meant only for the person it is prescribed for. Sharing it with others who do not show any symptoms of ADHD can cause an adverse reaction and is illegal and punishable.

4. Side effects for ADHD medication are dangerous
Some side effects are seen as a result of ADHD medication, but patients and parents are educated about possible side effects. However, the side effects can be managed and at no time can lead to alarming or life-threatening proportions. The medication has been certified safe if taken exactly as prescribed by the doctors. The side effects will subside over time.

5. Teachers and parents can cure ADHD without medication
ADHD is caused by biological factors that alter the way signals are transmitted in the brain. Unless those factors are altered, there can be no real improvement in the symptoms of the patients. Therapies do have some effect but have to be combined with the requisite medication. Medication can be reduced or phased out as the person shows improvement over time. Until then, patients have to take the help of the combined treatment protocol of medication and therapies.

6. Additional myths

Some other myths that are attributed to ADHD medications are:

• It causes stunted growth
• It’s unsafe for heart patients
• It’s unsafe for people who have been diagnosed as bipolar
• It’s unsafe for people who are prone to seizure attacks.

The medications and treatment protocol has been proved to be safe for quite some time. Nonprofit organizations work with communities, parents, schools, and colleges to ensure that those affected by ADHD get a level playing field and they can face the world with confidence. It is imperative that these myths about ADHD are dispelled so that treatment can be more precise.