ADHD and the myth of laziness
By Tara Drinks
Expert reviewed by Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, PhD, NCC, DCMHS, LMHC
At a glance
It’s a common myth that people with ADHD are lazy.
ADHD can make it harder for people to complete tasks.
There are ways to help people with ADHD tackle work and feel good about it.
People with ADHD often struggle with the skills needed to get tasks done. Their difficulty is sometimes mistaken for laziness. But that’s often not the case.
There are many reasons why people with ADHD have a hard time completing tasks. They may have trouble with paying attention, or with getting and staying organized. They might also have a hard time with anxiety.
Struggling with these skills can make people with ADHD feel insecure. Being told to just try harder can make them feel like they’re being judged. They may even start to question if they are lazy because other people have said so.
These insecurities can cause low self-esteem. Having low self-esteem can make it hard for anyone to want to push toward the finish line.
Keep reading to learn more about people with ADHD and the myth of laziness.
Dive Deeper
ADHD and the brain
Why people with ADHD struggle with doing tasks
How to help
About the author
About the author
Tara Drinks is an editor at Understood.
Reviewed by
Reviewed by
Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, PhD, NCC, DCMHS, LMHC is an author, mental health counselor, and Florida Supreme Court certified family and circuit mediator. She specializes in anxiety, gaslighting, narcissistic abuse, and ADHD.
