Click, Believe, Share, Repeat: Breaking the Cycle of ADHD Misinformation

In like a lion and out like a lamb... This month, I'm feeling the need to roar a little about the misleading ADHD information circulating on social media. Just this week, I spotted a post in my Facebook feed that, while likely well-intentioned, raised serious red flags and sent me diving into research mode.

When Something Doesn't Sit Right

As someone who serves on my professional organization's research committee, I'm deeply committed to evidence-based information. The post I saw made claims about ADHD that seemed too good to be true, triggering my protective instincts for our community.

I immediately began investigating to ensure I hadn't missed some breakthrough discovery. After thorough research, my suspicions were confirmed – the information was misleading and not supported by current scientific consensus.

The Pervasive Problem of Misinformation

We're living in an era where misinformation spreads faster than ever before. Social media platforms, while valuable for connection and support, can also become breeding grounds for unverified claims and pseudoscience.

There was a study released in 2022 that analyzed TikTok alone, concluding that 52% of 100 videos reviewed were misleading, and only 21% were quantifiably “useful.” Each of these 100 videos received over 2.8 million views. It is a fascinating review of viral content and the ease with which misinformation can be spread. You can find the study here: https://doi.org/10.1177/07067437221082854.

For the ADHD community, this is particularly concerning. People seeking genuine help might encounter:

• Miracle cures with no scientific backing

• Oversimplified explanations of complex neurological conditions

• Harmful stereotypes dressed up as "tips"

• Outdated information presented as current

Taking Action Against Misinformation

Rather than simply scrolling past questionable content, I encourage everyone to take an active stance:

1. Pause before sharing – Even if information seems helpful, verify it before passing it along

2. Check credible sources – Organizations like CHADD, ADDA, and peer-reviewed journals provide reliable information

3. Consult specialists – When in doubt, ask professionals with proper credentials

4. Report harmful content – Most platforms have mechanisms to flag dangerously misleading health information

5. Gently educate – When appropriate, share evidence-based resources with those spreading misinformation

Trust Your Instincts

If something about an ADHD claim doesn't sit right with your gut, that's a sign to get curious. Investigate further. Ask questions. Seek out multiple sources.

This healthy skepticism isn't about being negative or dismissive – it's about protecting our community from potential harm and ensuring we're all working with the most accurate information available.

The Power of Critical Thinking

By developing our critical thinking skills, we not only protect ourselves but also contribute to a healthier information ecosystem for everyone affected by ADHD. Sometimes, the process of investigating a questionable claim leads to discovering genuinely helpful information you might have otherwise missed.

Let's commit to being thoughtful consumers and sharers of information. Our collective vigilance can help ensure that evidence-based approaches remain at the forefront of ADHD discussions, even in the Wild West of social media.

Let’s Take a Stand Against ADHD Misinformation on Social Media.

Remember, when it comes to health information: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And that's something worth roaring about.