As a parent of a child with ADHD, I know all too well the difficulties that come with their diagnosis. Not only do we have to deal with the daily struggles of getting tasks started and finished, following instructions and remaining focused, but we also have to deal with the stigma and misconceptions that come with ADHD. It can be frustrating when people simplify things to such a superficial level, particularly when it comes to medication for ADHD.

However, ADHD is far more complex than the side effects of stimulant medication. Here are 10 things every parent who has a child with ADHD wants you to know:

1. They don’t need more labels.

Unfortunately, up to 66% of all kids with ADHD are liable to have some other disorder as well, such as autism, ODD (Oppositional Defiance Disorder), sensory disorders and anxiety, just to name a few. Instead of focusing on labels, we need to look at how we are going to support them at home and at school. There are lots of ways that kids with ADHD can be helped.

2. They need help with some tasks.

People are so quick to dismiss ADHD as just too much talking, jumping off the walls and being badly behaved. These are just outward signs of having difficulty with getting tasks started and finished, following instructions and remaining focused. Technically this is known as an executive function disorder (EFD), but we don’t always need another label. Parents and teachers are always on the lookout for ways of helping them overcome these difficulties.

3. They are not going to become drug addicts because of their medication.

Many people believe the myth that ADHD medication is likely to lead to more substance abuse in adolescence and adulthood. However, many studies show that this is not true at all, and there is no evidence to support this myth. Instead, the actual benefits of ADHD medication should be considered. Medication allows a child to focus better and get better grades at school, which can encourage them to do better in other areas of their life.

4. They have low self-esteem.

Kids with ADHD are likely to have low self-esteem unless they are encouraged to develop certain talents they have. All too often, they are stigmatized or discriminated against because of the ADHD label. It is essential to help them realize their potential and exploit their abilities. They need to be reminded of the success stories and that many people with ADHD have been successful in many areas such as sports, photography, cooking, athletics, acting, and sales.

5. They need more physical exercise.

Teachers and parents often wonder why kids with ADHD are so restless, impulsive, and fidgety. Instead of criticizing them, we should look at ways to overcome these problems. The importance of physical activity in helping kids with ADHD cannot be stressed enough. Studies show that physical exercise can lead to better mental alertness, better sleep, and greater attention span. One couple who sent their kids to a Norwegian school was able to reduce their medication when they benefited from more recesses and physical exercise.

6. They have hyperfocus which is second to none.

Everyone has talked about the lack of attention span and the distraction that ADHD kids have to cope with. But they are also capable of hyperfocus when they are really into something, and this can lead to many benefits. Children with ADHD can often get so involved in something that they can remain highly focused on it for hours. They can also pick up on details that many other people would miss. This is when their attention levels are best, according to Dr. Hallowell, an ADHD expert.

7. They are bright, creative, and funny.

Telling your kids they have an uphill task in front of them all the time is so disheartening for them, especially as our schools and society are so rigid about progress markers and academic achievement. It is great to discuss that openly with them when they meet obstacles and are discouraged. But it is not all bad news. The other side of the coin is that they are funny, creative, and often lack inhibition which other kids have. They can use their thinking outside the box for creative problem-solving.

8. They need to exploit their amazing energy.

Excess energy is often regarded as negative, especially if it is disruptive. The school system does not help children with ADHD because there are few opportunities for them to let off steam in a classroom setting. Their brains are more active when they are moving. It is crucial to allow them to wriggle and squirm. Studies show that fidgeting or a secondary movement actually helps them to concentrate.

9. They will outgrow it, so ADHD in adulthood is not a problem.

This is the most ignorant and inaccurate statement of all. Getting a proper diagnosis and starting treatment early is essential. Many teachers go overboard and try to get difficult students on medication, while others ignore it altogether, saying that they will outgrow it. This is irresponsible as adults with ADHD face enormous challenges in the workplace. Yes, they may be less hyperactive, but people are less forgiving in the workplace about attention and deadline issues.

10. They do not need any special social skills.

While Ritalin and other stimulants can really help with getting down to homework and keeping on task at school, social skills are another matter. Many people just do not realize that pills will not teach skills, especially social skills. Because they have problems with impulsivity and reading social cues, children with ADHD will find it hard to maintain friendships and stick to turn-taking when at play. This is why it is so important for parents to take social skills training seriously. It will have a lifelong impact, so it should never be brushed under the carpet.

In conclusion, ADHD is a complex disorder that requires more than just medication or a simple solution. It demands patience, understanding, and support from parents, teachers, and society. We need to stop looking at children with ADHD as a burden and start seeing them for their amazing abilities and talents. When we shift our focus to their strengths, we can help them realize their potential and lead fulfilling lives.