ADHD is More Than Just “Being a Kid”
When my friend’s son, Jack*, was in Year 2, his teacher pulled his mum aside after school one afternoon. “Jack’s a bright boy,” she said kindly, “but he’s finding it really hard to stay focused, and it’s starting to affect his learning and confidence.”
Jack’s parents brushed it off at first—“He’s just energetic, he’ll grow out of it.” After all, wasn’t every little boy a bit restless?
But months later, Jack’s struggles only deepened. He was falling behind academically, becoming frustrated, and withdrawing from his friends.
Eventually, Jack’s parents sought a professional assessment—and the diagnosis of ADHD finally gave them the answers they needed. With tailored support, Jack flourished.
Stories like Jack’s aren’t uncommon. And yet, as ADHD has become more frequently recognised a myth has emerged—that ADHD is a fad and “overdiagnosed” in young children. Let’s talk about why this belief isn’t supported by evidence—and why recognising ADHD early can make a life-changing difference.
Understanding ADHD: It’s Not Just “Bad Behaviour”
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.
It’s not simply about being “naughty,” “lazy,” or “undisciplined”—and it’s certainly not a parenting failure.
In primary school-aged children, ADHD often shows up as:
- Difficulty concentrating for extended periods
- Forgetfulness
- Impulsivity or emotional outbursts
- Struggles with organising tasks or belongings
- Restlessness or fidgeting
Without a proper understanding, these behaviours are easily mistaken for typical childlike exuberance. But when these challenges are persistent, disruptive, and causing distress, they warrant deeper investigation—not dismissal.
Why the Myth of “Overdiagnosis” Has Emerged
Misunderstanding Normal Child Behaviour vs Persistent Impairment
It’s natural for young kids to be active and distractible sometimes. However, ADHD is diagnosed when symptoms are chronic, impairing, and occur across multiple settings (such as school and home), not just in isolated incidents.
A comprehensive assessment considers developmental norms, environment, family dynamics, and academic performance—ensuring that a diagnosis isn’t made lightly.
Diagnostic Rigor and Professional Caution
Psychologists, paediatricians, and psychiatrists follow strict, research-backed guidelines (such as the DSM-5) when diagnosing ADHD. They assess history, use behaviour rating scales, observe functioning over time, and often include teacher and parent feedback.
The reality is—clinicians are careful and conservative with an ADHD diagnosis because it carries weight, long-term implications, and decisions about intervention.
Why Early Identification Matters
Leaving ADHD undiagnosed can lead to much larger struggles later on:
- Academic underachievement
- Low self-esteem
- Social difficulties
- Mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression
Early diagnosis allows for early support—empowering children to succeed in school, feel more connected socially, and build confidence in their abilities.
ADHD Is Under-Recognised, Not Overdiagnosed
Research increasingly shows that ADHD is more often under-recognised, particularly in girls (who may present with inattentive, quieter symptoms) or in children from minority backgrounds.
Missing a diagnosis doesn’t mean a child is spared—it simply means they may quietly struggle without the help they deserve.
Helping Children Thrive: The Power of Early Support
Children like Jack remind us that seeking clarity isn’t about “labelling” or “medicalising” kids—it’s about understanding their needs.
With early intervention, Jack caught up academically, developed better friendships, and stopped seeing himself as “the bad kid.”
Instead, he learned he was a bright, capable boy with a brain that simply needed a different approach.
Final Thoughts
Next time you hear someone say “ADHD is overdiagnosed,” remember Jack—and the many children like him.
Recognising ADHD early isn’t about pathologising childhood—it’s about opening doors to understanding, resilience, and success.
Psychological Testing for Kids & Teens – Your Top 3 Questions Answered
*Name and details changed to protect privacy.
Written by Jessica Chapman – Provisional Psychologist – www.creatingchange.net.au
