Some experts think that indigo children really just have undiagnosed ADHD. Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock
Not everyone buys into this indigo child theory. Some experts think the indigo child label is being used as a Band-Aid of sorts for kids who are potentially dealing with undiagnosed issues like autismattention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or attention deficit disorder.
Dr. Monica Vermani, clinical psychologist and author of “A Deeper Wellness: Conquering Stress, Mood, Anxiety and Traumas,” says by email that she’s comfortable raising “a red flag” about the concept. She explains that parents who “buy whole-heartedly into its framework might view their child’s problematic symptoms and behaviors — like inattention, and disruptive or defiant behaviors — through the lens of their indigo child status or identity.” This, she explains, “could lead them to dismiss, resist, or delay addressing problems through traditional channels of proper diagnosis and treatment.”
When a child isn’t treated for ADHD, for example, there can be far-reaching consequences. Many experts say that untreated ADHD can lead to substance abuse problems, detrimental eating habits and even poor driving skills, among other issues. Children with autism who don’t receive support are not likely to develop social skills and may have significant behavioral problems as they grow and mature.
“In society, we need just to see people as people, and we all have symptoms that can be holding us back in one way or another in life,” Vermani says. “It is harmful to categorize people rather than acknowledge, understand and help them overcome problematic symptoms. Professionally I believe that treatment is about providing coping skills, resources, and professional guidance to address problematic symptoms … as early as possible.”
Counters Berg, “ADHD, Autism, neurodivergence, and titles of this nature are all ways that we categorize the sensitivity that comes with the shift in awareness that we’re currently undergoing. [The] indigo child is another way to describe the concept because our children are coming in with greater awareness due to the collective shift.”
