What is ADHD?

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is one of the most common behavioral disorders in childhood, although it can also persist into adulthood.

People with ADHD may experience difficulties maintaining attention, focusing for long periods, controlling impulses, or staying still. Although these behaviors may occasionally appear in all children, in the case of ADHD these behaviors are persistent, significantly interfere with daily life, and affect academic, emotional, and social development.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder presents in three main forms:

• Inattentive: difficulty concentrating, following instructions, or remembering details.
• Hyperactive-Impulsive: motor restlessness, constant need to move, impulsivity.
• Combined: shows symptoms of both types of ADHD, being the most common form.

The diagnosis of ADHD is clinical and based on the observation of behaviors in different contexts, such as home and school, involving healthcare professionals, parents, and teachers. Standardized questionnaires and clinical interviews are also used to support the evaluation.

Treatment is usually multidisciplinary and personalized, combining ADHD medication (if needed), psychological therapy, family guidance, and individualized educational support. Addressing it comprehensively helps improve the quality of life of people with ADHD and their environment.

10 common myths about ADHD

10 common myths about ADHD

Despite increasing scientific evidence around ADHD, many myths still circulate, making early detection, appropriate treatment, or necessary support more difficult. Here we debunk the most frequent myths about ADHD in children and adults:

1. People with ADHD can’t focus on anything.
   In fact, people with ADHD can focus intensely on tasks they find stimulating or interesting — this is known as “hyperfocus.” The real issue lies in regulating attention, not in the ability to pay attention itself.

2. Only children have ADHD.
   Although ADHD is more frequently diagnosed in childhood, it can persist into adulthood, often with different symptoms that are harder to identify.

3. ADHD is only about hyperactivity.
   One myth is that ADHD only manifests as hyperactivity. However, many people with ADHD have a predominantly inattentive profile, with difficulties concentrating and no clear signs of motor restlessness. This quieter profile can go unnoticed for years.

4. ADHD medications are dangerous and addictive.
   The medications used are approved and safe under medical supervision. When used properly, ADHD treatment with medication does not cause addiction. In fact, these medications can significantly improve quality of life and help manage symptoms effectively.

5. ADHD only affects school or work.
   ADHD also impacts emotional, social, and family life. It can make it difficult to manage time, sleep, relationships, or self-esteem.

6. If my child gets good grades, they can’t have ADHD.
   Some people with ADHD achieve good academic results, especially if they have a high IQ or effective coping strategies, but that doesn’t mean they don’t struggle with attention.

7. Only medication is needed to treat ADHD.
   The most effective treatment combines different strategies: medication (when indicated), cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, family support, and specialized academic assistance.

8. Having ADHD means being disorganized and chaotic all the time.
   Some adults with ADHD develop structured routines to stay organized. ADHD does not present the same way in everyone.

9. If you weren’t diagnosed as a child, you can’t have ADHD.
   Many adults with ADHD are diagnosed later in life, especially if they went unnoticed as children or were misdiagnosed with other behavioral or emotional disorders.

10. ADHD is caused by bad parenting or lack of discipline.
    ADHD has a neurobiological and genetic origin. Parenting does not cause it, although it can influence how the symptoms are expressed and managed.

The importance of detecting and treating ADHD early

If you notice persistent difficulties in yourself or your child with paying attention, controlling impulses, or staying calm — especially if these interfere with daily life — consult a professional. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve quality of life.

At CreuBlanca, we have a multidisciplinary team specialized in child, adolescent, and adult health who can help answer any questions, carry out an evaluation, and design a personalized treatment plan if needed. Because understanding ADHD is the first step to better supporting those who live with it.