Does ADHD have an awareness week?

As a matter of fact it does. ADHD Awareness Week is September 13–17. Backed by four leading national organizations—ADHD Coaches Organization, Attention Deficit Disorder Association, ADDitudemagazine and Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)—the week hopes to raise awareness and public assistance for those affected by ADHD. As part of this effort, the groups will be posting evidence-based information and links to available resources and supports at www.adhdawareness2010.org. The site also has information on seven common myths about ADHD, including the following:

1. ADHD isn’t a real medical disorder.

2. Children who are given accommodations because of their ADHD are getting an unfair advantage.

3. Children with ADHD eventually outgrow their condition.

4. ADHD affects only boys.

5. ADHD is the result of bad parenting.

6. Children who take ADHD medication are more likely to abuse drugs as teenagers.

7. People who have ADHD are stupid or lazy—they never amount to anything.