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Does ADHD and intelligence myths make people feel stupid? 

PostedOctober 8, 2025
UpdatedOctober 8, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

No, ADHD does not make you stupid. This harmful idea stems from persistent ADHD and intelligence myths that confuse attention issues with low cognitive ability. In reality, ADHD is a condition that affects how the brain manages focus, impulse control, and organisation, not how intelligent someone is. 

The stigma surrounding ADHD often leads to unfair labels, especially when symptoms show up in school or work settings. People with ADHD may struggle with deadlines, instructions, or concentration, which can be mistaken for laziness or lack of ability. These misconceptions can cause deep self-doubt and mask the individual’s true potential. 

How Misconceptions Cause Harm 

Mislabelled intelligence 

A person with ADHD might be highly intelligent but perform poorly in structured environments, leading to incorrect assumptions about their abilities. 

Internalised stigma 

Hearing damaging myths over time can lead individuals to believe they are less capable, even when that is far from the truth. 

Misunderstood behaviour 

Fidgeting, daydreaming, or forgetfulness are often misread as signs of low ability rather than symptoms of ADHD. 

Overlooked strengths 

Creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and unique perspectives are common in people with ADHD, but these can be ignored due to negative bias. 

Challenging ADHD and intelligence myths is essential to support people in recognising their strengths and valuing their minds. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Myths about ADHD and intelligence.

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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