ADHD is often thought of as a condition that only affects children, but there are many adults living with it in Ireland. Some may not even be aware they have it. While it can present challenges in a working environment, it can also give rise to impressive skills in the workplace. It is important for those with ADHD to first start off with a proper diagnosis and find ways to thrive in the workplace with ADHD.
Overcoming Workplace Challenges
Adults with ADHD frequently have difficulty managing their time. They may feel like they have too many tasks to do, and can become overwhelmed that none of it is getting done. If they put it off for too long, they might try to do everything at once, which can be stressful and may affect the quality of their work.
Distractions are another common problem. A person with ADHD might have conversations with themselves and make noise. Even the sound of a phone vibrating or a computer making noises from receiving a notification can interrupt them and make it difficult to focus.
Another common problem is disorganisation. They may have several things to juggle at once and keeping track of their tasks, responsibilities, and emails may seem impossible. They may appear disorganised, which can affect how they are viewed professionally.
Recognizing Strengths
Despite the associated problems and difficulties, adults with ADHD may have strengths unique to them that can benefit a workplace. They may come up with creative solutions to problems; they may think of situations or ideas that may not have previously been considered.
Once involved in a project, they can hyperfocus and put out a considerable amount of work in a short period. Their energy and enthusiasm may also be infectious.
Managing ADHD at Work
Taking the step to get an ADHD diagnosis in Ireland can help the individual and others close to them better understand their condition. HealthHero.ie (formerly MyClinic.ie) is here to provide a diagnosis service for those who believe they may have ADHD. When an individual is diagnosed with the condition, it can empower them to seek any necessary accommodations to assist them as they navigate their life at work.
There are some suitable tools that can be used for managing time, such as different apps or visual schedules. Blocking out noises can help to prevent distractions, doing something as simple as using headphones and working in a quiet area to work so that they can concentrate on and accomplish their task.
Workplace Support
Employers can also do something relatively little that may make a big difference. If possible, flexible working hours or a place to work can be made available. That is not the only way employers can show their support. Employers should always make sure to provide as much information as possible. Vague information or advice can be interpreted very differently and lead to confusion.
Mentoring can be very beneficial. An ADHD mentor can be someone to look up to, someone who can help the employee with empathy, good listening, and encouragement, who will give them advice and guide them. The ADHD mentor can help frame areas of personal strength and development challenges.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
It’s important to remember that ADHD doesn’t define a person’s skills or potential. With the right help and support, adults with ADHD can channel their unique way of thinking into a strength.
Employees with ADHD can offer employers a whole host of skills: creativity, energy, and original problem-solving ability. They are often great at thinking outside the box and seeing the bigger picture, helping to foresee trends and new opportunities that can be useful in the workplace. They can bring a different point of view to group projects and are usually very motivated to participate in something if they feel that their opinion means something.
Looking Forward
To help an adult with ADHD achieve success at their work, the two most important aspects that need to be considered are a real understanding of what ADHD is and an acceptance of their quirks while supporting them as a company. Learning more about ADHD treatment or getting an ADHD diagnosis will help an adult with ADHD to put strategies in place to overcome any difficulties that might arise and improve their performance at their job.
By creating a supportive environment within our company, we create a space where all employees can really put their abilities into practice. It’s not about fixing difficult people, it’s about facilitating them so they can add more value to the company.
