ADHD, has been recognized and studied for more than 100 years. It has passed through several diagnostic labels such as “hyperkinetic impulsive disorder” and ADD. In the 90’s “ADD” was changed to “ADHD.” Hyperactivity represented relative patterns that fit with the classifications of ADD. Not only is the body of scientific literature documenting the reality of this condition massive; the list of prominent individuals and others who have it is substantial. This includes famous celebrities, athletes, politicians, inventors, authors, explorers, philosophers and many, many others.

While some media coverage questions the validity of the ADHD diagnosis, professional medical groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Surgeon General’s Office, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) and American Medical Association (AMA) have supported the strong, scientific evidence of this disorder. According to the American Medical Association Council on Scientific Affairs, “ADHD is one of the best-researched disorders in psychiatry. The overall data on its validity is far more compelling than for most mental disorders, and even many medical conditions.”