If you're in Japan and want to explore support options, or if you're just ready to talk about what's going on, I warmly invite you to consider a free consultation with a psychologist. Here are a few resources:

therapyjp.com - Professional, English-speaking psychologists in Japan

tell.jp - Free and confidential English-language support in Japan

ADHD Japan - Your knowledge base for ADHD info in Japan

ADHD Adults Japan - Support group (facebook)

9 Common Myths About ADHD

Blame It on Gadgets, Sugar, or Bad Parenting?

Fidgety, forgetful, blurts out answers, can't sit still, struggles to focus or stay on task-many children show these behaviors from time to time. But when such patterns begin to interfere with learning or social life, we may be looking at something more than just typical childhood energy. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a real neurodevelopmental condition, yet it's also surrounded by myths that can be as harmful as the disorder itself.

At the request of International Mental Health and Counseling, clinical psychologist Mariia Vabulnik debunks nine of the most common misconceptions about ADHD.

Myth 1: “Lots of kids are hyper and restless-it's just normal behavior”

It's true that many children have boundless energy and short attention spans. But ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is more than just a case of “kids being kids.” It's a recognized neurodevelopmental condition, officially listed in the ICD-11-the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases, developed by the World Health Organization.

However, it is true that ADHD is an extremely common condition. Recent research suggests that ADHD affects an average of 10% of children (some sources estimate anywhere from 3% to 15%). While its core symptoms can be managed effectively with therapy, ADHD itself doesn't simply “go away” with age-it often stays with a person in one form or another throughout their life.

ADHD isn't one-size-fits-all. It comes in three main types, depending on which symptoms are most prominent:

• Primarily inattentive (trouble focusing, forgetfulness, distraction)
• Primarily hyperactive and impulsive (restlessness, acting without thinking)
• Combined type (a mix of both)

In other words, the face of ADHD can look very different from one person to the next. Symptoms may shift over time, and their intensity can be influenced by co-occurring conditions like autism or intellectual disabilities.

Diagnosing ADHD also depends on age:

• For children under 16, six or more symptoms must be clearly present.
• For teens 16 and older, five symptoms are enough.

The symptoms must also be persistent, showing up consistently for more than six months, and occur across different settings, not just at school or home.

In older teens and adults, doctors also look for signs that some symptoms began before the age of 12, occurred in at least two environments, and negatively impact daily life (!!!).

It's important to note that many ADHD symptoms can overlap with other mental health conditions. That's why only a qualified medical professional-such as a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist-can make an accurate diagnosis.

In Preschool-Aged Children (3-5 years old):

— Restless energy and constant movement-they're always on the go, like a motor that won't turn off.

— Short attention span and forgetfulness-even focusing for five minutes can be a challenge; calming down for naps or bedtime may feel impossible.

— Impatience and trouble waiting their turn-they often jump the line, interrupt, or grab things without asking.

— No fear of danger-they might run into the street or climb high places without hesitation.

— Impulsive, chaotic behavior-throwing toys, knocking things over, darting from one activity to the next.

— Play that's intense and sometimes destructive-roughhousing that often ends in tears.

— Stubbornness, defiance, and a tendency to argue-frequent battles of will with parents or caregivers.

— Delayed motor or speech development-lagging behind in coordination or language.

— Frequent meltdowns or tantrums-big emotions that last long and flare up often.

— Difficulty with potty training and other self-care skills-tasks like tying shoelaces or buttoning a shirt may take much longer to master.

— Challenges adjusting to new people or environments-they may struggle to bond with a new nanny or get expelled from preschool because staff can't manage their behavior.

In Adults:

Disorganization and trouble managing routines-staying on top of schedules, deadlines, or daily chores can feel overwhelming.

Forgetfulness-they might frequently lose keys, wallets, credit cards, or important documents.

Procrastination and difficulty finishing projects-starting tasks is hard, finishing them can feel impossible.

Emotional dysregulation-sudden outbursts, impulsive decisions, quitting jobs on a whim, or overspending are common. Life may feel like it's constantly in a state of upheaval.

Myth 2: “ADHD is just a trendy diagnosis-they slap it on every kid these days”

It might seem like ADHD is a modern invention, a buzzword diagnosis handed out to every energetic child. But that's not exactly the truth.

The symptoms of ADHD were first described way back in 1775 by German physician Melchior Adam Weikard. He referred to it as a disorder of “inattention,” and his description aligns almost perfectly with how we understand ADHD today. In other words, this isn't a 21st-century trend-it's a condition that doctors have been observing and documenting for over two centuries.

Throughout the 20th century, our understanding of the condition continued to evolve. In the 1980s, the term “hyperkinetic syndrome” was commonly used and officially listed in the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition). The now-familiar label ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) only came into official use with the publication of the ICD-11.

Now, it's true that in recent years, ADHD has become more widely recognized — and yes, in some places, overdiagnosis can be a real concern. But that doesn't mean the condition itself is imaginary or exaggerated. ADHD is a legitimate neurodevelopmental disorder that can deeply affect a person's daily life, learning, work, and relationships-whether they're a child or an adult.

So no, it's not just a fad. It's a long-standing, well-documented condition that deserves to be taken seriously.

Myth 3: “It's all the parents' fault-ADHD comes from an unhealthy lifestyle”

When a child is diagnosed with ADHD, it's tempting to look for someone-or something-to blame. Often, fingers point straight at the parents. But the truth is, science still doesn't know the exact cause of ADHD. What we do know is that it's likely the result of a complex mix of biological, genetic, and environmental factors, not simply parenting style or lifestyle choices.

Yes, smoking or drinking during pregnancy can increase the risk of ADHD-but they're not the only contributors. Other risk factors include:

• Premature birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
• Low birth weight
• Family hardship , such as poverty or unemployment
• Exposure to trauma or abuse , whether physical or emotional
• Nutritional factors , such as low levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which some studies suggest may influence brain development

Blaming parents oversimplifies a complex condition and adds unnecessary guilt where support and understanding are needed instead.

Myth 4: “ADHD? Come on. The kid's just spoiled, lazy, or has a bad attitude.”

ADHD has nothing to do with being spoiled, lazy, or willful. Children with ADHD face challenges from a young age, regardless of how loving or attentive their parents are, how strict or gentle the discipline is, or how motivated the child appears to be.

What sets kids with ADHD apart isn't just difficult behavior-it's that their brains are wired differently. These children often lag behind in one or more areas of development, such as:

• Language and communication skills
• Gross and fine motor coordination
• Academic abilities

When a child consistently struggles in school, it's a red flag that calls for a comprehensive evaluation-not punishment or blame. If that same child is focused and engaged during hobbies or after-school activities but seems lost or disruptive in the classroom, the issue may lie in how they're being taught — not in the child themselves.

What About Social Skills?

Children with ADHD may also struggle socially-but not because they don't care about others. Sometimes these difficulties are part of another diagnosis, like autism, where social cues and boundaries are harder to understand due to differences in “theory of mind”-the ability to grasp what others are thinking or feeling.

In contrast, kids with ADHD usually understand social rules, but may break them accidentally because of impulsivity or inattention. For example, they might interrupt someone mid-sentence or blurt out something inappropriate-not because they're rude, but because their brain reacts faster than their filter.

The Role of Adults

ADHD is not caused by parenting. However, how adults respond to a child with ADHD can make a world of difference.

When parents, teachers, and caregivers learn to understand the child's unique needs and adjust their communication, it can help the child build motivation, focus, and self-regulation. In other words, children with ADHD can thrive-but only when the adults around them know how to support their growth rather than punish their symptoms.

So instead of labeling a child as “difficult,” it's time we start asking: What's going on beneath the surface? Because behind every behavior is a story-and often, a need waiting to be met.

If you're in Japan and want to explore support options, or if you're just ready to talk about what's going on, I warmly invite you to consider a free consultation with a psychologist. Here are a few resources:

therapyjp.com - Professional, English-speaking psychologists in Japan

tell.jp - Free and confidential English-language support in Japan

ADHD Japan - Your knowledge base for ADHD info in Japan

ADHD Adults Japan - Support group (facebook)

Myth 5: “ADHD Is Caused by Too Much Screen Time”

It's a common belief: “My kid can't focus because they're always glued to a screen.” .
Gadgets don't cause ADHD. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition you're born with, not something triggered by screens or devices.

However, the way children use technology can influence their attention spans. Studies show that spending more than two hours a day in front of a screen-especially passively watching TV-can make it harder for kids to concentrate, regardless of whether they have ADHD.

The key issue isn't just the gadget itself, but how it's used. Scrolling aimlessly through a phone, binging videos, or playing repetitive video games with little educational or social value can have negative effects. In other words, the brain starts craving the fast-paced, constantly changing rewards that digital media provides-making regular activities like reading, playing outside, or doing homework feel dull and effortful by comparison.

So while gadgets don't cause ADHD, they can worsen attention problems-especially when used excessively and without structure. Like sugar for the brain, a little screen time can be fun and harmless, but too much can disrupt natural rhythms of focus and emotional regulation.

The solution? Mindful use of technology, with a healthy balance of screen-free play, face-to-face connection, and restful downtime.

Myth 6: “ADHD Only Happens to Boys”

This is one of the most persistent and misleading myths about ADHD. While it's true that boys are diagnosed with ADHD more often than girls, that doesn't mean girls aren't affected.

In childhood, the ratio is roughly three boys for every one girl diagnosed with ADHD. But as children grow older, this gap begins to narrow. Why? Because ADHD often looks different in girls-and it's easier to miss.

Girls are more likely to have the inattentive type of ADHD, which doesn't come with the classic signs of hyperactivity like bouncing off the walls or constant fidgeting. Instead, it shows up as:

• Daydreaming
• Difficulty staying organized
• Forgetfulness
• Struggling to follow through on tasks

These behaviors may not disrupt the classroom in obvious ways, so girls often fly under the radar. But make no mistake-inattentive ADHD can seriously impact learning, confidence, and social development.

Because of this quieter presentation, many girls go undiagnosed for years, often not receiving support until adolescence or even adulthood-when challenges in school, work, or relationships finally bring things to light.

So no, ADHD is not a “boys-only” disorder. It affects children of all genders-just not always in the same way.

Myth 7: “ADHD Is Just a Childhood Disorder-Adults Don't Have It”

This idea is only half true. Yes, some signs of ADHD do tend to fade with age-especially the more obvious ones like constant movement or blurting things out. By the end of adolescence, hyperactivity might quiet down. But that doesn't mean the disorder disappears.

Attention issues, impulsivity, and emotional turbulence often stick around well into adulthood. And for many adults, they quietly wreak havoc.

Grown-ups with undiagnosed ADHD may struggle with:

• Frequent accidents or driving mishaps
• Addictive behaviors , from substance use to compulsive spending
• Workplace drama-from impulsive outbursts to frequent job changes
• Relationship conflicts , both personal and professional

In early adulthood, ADHD might lead to job loss or constantly switching careers, not because of a lack of talent, but because of challenges with focus, time management, or emotional control.

Studies show that ADHD affects around 1% or fewer adults over the age of 50. But researchers aren't sure if that number reflects reality-or just a gap in diagnosis. It could be that ADHD symptoms truly lessen in later life. Or it might be that we're simply missing the signs in older adults, mistaking them for forgetfulness, stress, or personality quirks.

Interestingly, while hyperactivity and impulsiveness often mellow with age, inattention tends to linger, making everyday tasks like managing bills, staying organized, or following long conversations more difficult.

In short, ADHD doesn't vanish with a high school diploma. It grows up with you-and if left unrecognized, it can quietly shape your adult life in frustrating and unexpected ways.

Myth 8: “Too Much Sugar Causes Hyperactivity”

It's one of the most popular myths around-the idea that sugar turns kids into wild, hyperactive whirlwinds. But scientific research simply doesn't back this up.

In fact, what seems to have a bigger effect on children's behavior is what parents believe. In one well-known study, children were given a placebo, but their mothers were told it contained high amounts of sugar. Not surprisingly, many of them reported that their child was acting more hyper-even though the child had eaten no sugar at all.

This shows just how strong expectations and perception can be in shaping what we think we see.

That said, sugar isn't totally off the hook. While it doesn't cause ADHD or hyperactivity, it can contribute to other health problems if consumed in excess. For example:

• For children under 2, added sugar should be completely avoided.
• For older kids and adults, sugar should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

Too much sugar over time can raise the risk of heart disease, tooth decay, obesity, and other chronic health conditions.

So while sugar might not be the root of hyperactive behavior, it's still worth watching how much makes its way into your child's diet-not for behavior, but for long-term well-being.

Myth 9: “Medication Is the Only Way to Treat ADHD”

This is a common misconception-and an incomplete picture of how ADHD can be managed.

Medication isn't always the first or only line of treatment. In fact, for children under six years old, doctors usually recommend starting with behavioral interventions rather than prescribing any drugs. Effective support for a child with ADHD often involves a team of professionals: psychologists, educators, neurologists, and psychiatrists, all working together to tailor an approach that fits the child's unique needs.

The most successful strategies are typically comprehensive and individualized, combining:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Parent training programs
• Visual supports and routine-building tools

These methods can-and often should-begin immediately after diagnosis, even for very young children.

What About Medication?

Over the past few decades, researchers around the world have studied stimulant medications for ADHD. These drugs increase levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, which help with focus, emotional regulation, and motivation.

For many children, the right medication-at the right dose-can reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. In countries like the U.S. and across Europe, stimulant medications are widely used and well-studied for this purpose. While effective in some cases, this medication isn't a decision to take lightly-it deserves careful thought and expert input.

In short, medication can help-but it's not the whole story. ADHD treatment works best when it's holistic, evidence-based, and tailored to the individual child. Support, structure, and understanding go just as far-if not farther-than a pill alone.

Hope and Help Are Within Reach

I truly believe, as a psychologist and as someone who's walked alongside many clients on their journey, that no one is truly powerless. Change is possible-and you don't have to go it alone.

If you're in Japan and want to explore support options, or if you're just ready to talk about what's going on, I warmly invite you to consider a free consultation with a psychologist. Here are a few resources:

therapyjp.com - Professional, English-speaking psychologists in Japan

tell.jp - Free and confidential English-language support in Japan

ADHD Japan - Your knowledge base for ADHD info in Japan

ADHD Adults Japan - Support group (facebook)