Is ADHD Real?
2006-12-08

by D. E. Herrod, B.Ed.E, M.Div

Is ADHD real, or is it merely a school-related problem? This is a question that many experts disagree about. Some claim that ADHD is merely an attempt by educators to find something to blame for their own shortcomings, or it is due to a lack of discipline by parents. ADHD is real. It is not due to a lack of discipline or some scam concocted by educators. It is a real disorder.

So what is ADHD? WebMD defines ADHD as: "A common developmental and behavioral disorder characterized by poor concentration, distractibility, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Children and adults with ADHD are easily distracted by sights and sounds in their environment, cannot concentrate for long periods of time, are restless and impulsive, or have a tendency to daydream and be slow to complete tasks."

Couldn't all of these symptoms be due to other factors such as laziness, lack of interest, or boredom? Possibly, if the duration of the behaviors are short lived. ADHD is a pattern of behaviors that exists for a long period of time.

If ADHD is real, then why can someone with ADHD concentrate for long periods of time for some activities and not others? There are many reasons why sometimes someone with ADHD can focus on one activity longer than on other activities. First, some things are just more interesting. Most people are more likely to stick with an activity they find interesting. Another reason is that some things are more engaging. Sometimes it is easier to concentrate, or the individual has learned to how to concentrate.

It sounds like ADHD is just an excuse to not do something. Wrong, there are times when it is easier to control ADHD, and sometimes it is very difficult if not almost impossible to control.

Isn't ADHD really an excuse for lack of discipline? No, however, it is true that disorganization and lack of self-discipline are common in people with ADHD. It doesn't mean that there is a lack of discipline but rather a need to be taught these skills.

What are some solutions for dealing with ADHD? For some it is having a highly structured life. Others must closely monitor the types of foods they eat and especially sugar. Still others use drugs to control ADHD. There is no one miracle cure, but rather each person with ADHD needs to be treated to as individual.

So am I some sort of expert on ADHD? No, not really. I am educator who has had many students with ADHD. Also, I am an adult with ADHD. I have learned how to cope with ADHD, and I have two earned degrees. No, I do not take medicine. I was blessed to have a mother who not only was determined to help me, but she also had the training and education to do so. She is one of the most structured individuals I have met. She forced organization and structure upon me. Growing up I felt like my mom was mean, however, now I am very grateful to her. Ultimately, I see ADHD as something that can either be a secret weapon or your worst enemy. When channeled properly, distractibility can be turned into the ability to multi-task. Hyperactivity can be that extra energy needed to get things done. When distractibility and hyperactivity are not controlled, they can prevent one from accomplishing anything. It is all about control -- do you control ADHD, or does it control you?