It seems like everybody I talk to has ADHD these days. I know family and friends who suffer from this disorder, some of whom want to keep it quiet and others who are ready to announce it from the mountaintops. Those in the latter category are more likely to have heightened personalities and use the ADHD label rather ignorantly.

As a psychology graduate and researcher, I am sensitive to mental health and the proper use of diagnoses. Mental health services are used to help people have a better quality of life. But what I am encountering are people who don’t understand what it means to have an ADHD diagnosis and how it can affect your quality of life.

Why is it becoming a norm to have ADHD? Pop culture has a way of normalizing mental health issues to make them more acceptable and tolerable. It also normalizes mental health issues to remove the stigma. Those of us who advocate for reducing the stigma around mental health don’t want it to create an alternative of desensitization.

This article aims to reinforce the importance of mental health and why we should not become so comfortable with it that we become desensitized to its impact on the lives of those suffering from the disorder.

Modern lifestyles, which often involve high levels of stimulation, multitasking, and demands on attention, exacerbate ADHD symptoms or make them more noticeable. Additionally, the stigma around mental health issues has decreased, encouraging more people to seek help.

Are you prone to developing ADHD? According to research, we are all prone to hyperactive behavior, but when does it become a diagnostic disorder?

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. While it may seem like everybody has ADHD these days, it is important to understand that not everyone who displays occasional hyperactive behavior or struggles with attention is diagnosed with the disorder.

Research suggests that genetics play a significant role in the development of ADHD. Individuals with a family history of the condition may be more prone to developing it themselves. However, it is essential to note that genetics alone do not determine the diagnosis. Environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins during pregnancy or early childhood, can also contribute to the development of ADHD.

The diagnosis of ADHD is usually made when certain criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) are met. These criteria include persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that significantly impact a person’s daily functioning in multiple settings, such as school, work, or relationships.

It is crucial to remember that an accurate diagnosis should only be made by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, after a comprehensive evaluation. These professionals consider various factors, including the individual’s medical history, symptoms, and behavioral patterns, before making a diagnosis.

While it may seem like ADHD is becoming a norm, it is more likely that increased awareness and understanding of the condition have led to more accurate diagnoses. Additionally, as society becomes more accepting and supportive of mental health issues, individuals feel more comfortable seeking help and getting the necessary support they need.

However, it is essential to avoid overgeneralizing or stigmatizing the ADHD disorder. Each individual’s experience with the disorder is unique, and not everyone who displays hyperactive behavior or struggles with attention has ADHD. It is crucial to approach the topic with empathy, understanding, and respect for those who are genuinely affected by the condition.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month!