But only 8 to 9 percent of the population actually has ADHD. An inaccurate diagnosis of ADHD can lead to inappropriate treatment recommendations, medications, and undesired results. 

Anxiety, OCD, and mood disorders are frequently misdiagnosed as ADHD. Behaviors due to boredom such as fidgeting, talking out of turn, running around, and acting out are also frequently mistaken for ADHD. 

It’s important to remember that people will struggle with focus, attention, and poor behavior from time to time. This does not automatically qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD. However, if these issues are persistent, acute, and accompanied by poor decision making, lack of impulse control, poor judgement, and other problems with executive functioning, a thorough evaluation from a qualified professional is strongly recommended.