MYTHS ABOUT ADHD (Part 1)
Myth #1
ADHD is not a real disorder.
Fact: ADHD is considered to be a chronic, neurobehavioral disorder that is classically characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The disorder is particularly relevant in today’s society as it is one of the most common diagnoses in educational and children’s mental health settings. ADHD is believed to typically onset in early childhood, although diagnosis is typically determined in the school-age years.
Myth #2
A simple test can determine if someone has ADHD.
Fact: There is no simple diagnostic test that can specifically identify ADHD, as can be done with other disorders such as cardiac, neuro and etc. There is no additional benefit from screening all children in schools.
Myth #3
ADHD is just a childhood disorder.
Fact: Long-term follow-up studies revealed that in 40 to 60% of children with ADHD, the disorder persists into adulthood.
The prevalence of ADHD in adults is 4.4% worldwide.
Myth #4
ADHD can be cured with medication.
Fact: Medications are very useful in treating ADHD, but they do not cure ADHD. The most widely used medications are two psychostimulants, methylphenidate (MPH) and amphetamines (AMP), which reduce symptoms in approximately 70% of patients. At the same time stimulants have a high potential for abuse and dependence, cause many side effects. There are some non-stimulants to treat ADHD — atomoxetine, guanfacine, clonidine, bupropion, tricyclic antidepressants, — but they are believed to possess a less robust effect than stimulants. The effects of ADHD medication however are short-lived, and benefits of medication are generally maintained only if medication is continued.
This is not a solution, it’s only the way to put off the issue.
Myth #5
ADHD is caused by poor parenting
Fact: ADHD is not caused by parenting. The etiology of such disease is thought to be multifactorial (pre- and perinatal risk factors) with a strong genetic liability. However, some parenting techniques can help children.
To be continued.
PIGPUG is the AI telemedicine brain training system for kids with ADHD and ASD. We developing a product that will help to diagnose and work on ADHD with AI technology and neurofeedback therapy. As a result, we are going to launch an available massive platform to help children with ADHD to study and socialize well enough to grow up confident and happy people.
Anastasiya Kuzniatsova M.D., Child Neurologist
