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Are people with ADHD mentally retarded? 

PostedOctober 9, 2025
UpdatedOctober 9, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

No, they are not. This harmful idea is rooted in the outdated and offensive confusion between ADHD and intellectual disability myth. ADHD is not an intellectual or cognitive disability. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and organisation skills. 

People with ADHD can have a wide range of intellectual abilities, just like the general population. Many are highly intelligent and capable, but the effects of ADHD on daily functioning can sometimes mask their true potential. The continued use of outdated terms like “mentally retarded” not only spreads misinformation but also adds to the stigma surrounding developmental conditions. 

How It Helps to Correct the Myth 

Understanding brain differences 

ADHD and developmental disorders such as intellectual disability are different. ADHD affects attention and behaviour, not overall intelligence. 

Reducing harm 

Using correct terminology and debunking the ADHD and intellectual disability myth helps prevent discrimination and emotional harm. 

Supporting the individual 

Recognising the specific needs of someone with ADHD allows for more personalised and effective support. 

Promoting accurate education 

Distinguishing between these conditions encourages better public awareness and informed conversations. 

Challenging the ADHD and intellectual disability myth is key to reducing stigma and ensuring people with ADHD are seen for their strengths, not outdated labels. 

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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