Lets Focus on Work
Welcome back!
Last week we talked about the need for safe driving practices. This week we are going to jump right into employment with ADHD, because what’s better than driving to work? As we discussed before, ADHD can impact many areas of life, not just school. Kids with ADHD eventually grow up to be adults and will need to have strong coping skills for workplace success.
Young adults specifically may struggle because they are surrounded by societal pressures such as performing well in college, getting a job, and maintaining a social circle. As people begin to age, they may find that it is more challenging to come across supportive services. Many employers may not even be aware that they have an employee with ADHD.
Adults with ADHD could potential struggle with expectations such as arriving on time to work, working in a noisy environment, focusing on small details, and keeping track of important work documents.
When an individual with ADHD gets a job and starts to feel overwhelmed, it is important that they ask for help right away. When approaching an employer about workplace concerns, the employee should come with solutions to problems rather than just frustration. It is recommended that if the individual is having significant trouble at work that they talk to co-workers about how they are successful or enlist help from a job coach or an executive functioning coach.
Some individuals may feel comfortable disclosing to their employer that they have ADHD. This could be helpful because they can discuss accommodations that may lead to more success at work. These accommodations could be as easy as moving to a less distracting office space.
It takes courage to address how ADHD could be causing problems at work. With patience and a sense of self-awareness, many with ADHD are able to overcome workplace barriers.
Cheers,
Emily Mori, MS, LGPC, NCC, CAS, ADHD-CCSP
As a strength-based therapist I believe mindfulness is the best approach to life's challenges. I help to empower clients seeking to move forward and to achieve their wellness goals.