Adult ADHD: Coping in the Workplace

Though not life-threatening, adult ADHD can be a very difficult condition to manage. This is particularly true in the workplace.

Many adults with ADHD state that they have difficulty catching up with their ever-growing list of tasks. Misplaced documents, tight deadlines, and pressure from peers and superiors further add to their burden.

ADHD Symptoms that Affect Work

Even if there is an inner desire to be of help to their organization, there are internal issues preventing adults with ADHD from performing well. Sadly, work colleagues who are not aware of these conditions simply label the ADHD sufferer as lazy or incompetent, which is not necessarily the case.

For a sufferer of ADHD, the following are the ADHD symptoms that may greatly affect their work.

• Anger issues (trouble controlling temper outbursts)
• Constant need for movement
• Difficulty concentrating on tasks due to both external and internal distractions
• Easily bored, especially with routine tasks
• Excessive talking
• Generally disorganized
• Inability to manage time well
• Inattentiveness
• Poor short-term memory
• Procrastination

Success through Preparation

Despite the many obstacles to success, all is not lost. Many of these symptoms can be solved if planned well.

1. Take Notes

Something as simple as taking down notes in a small notebook or in one’s smartphone can resolve problems connected to concentration, disorganization, memory, and time management. A system, however, is needed for the ADHD sufferer to regularly check their notes.

2. Follow a Schedule

Many with ADHD report that it helps if there is a degree of structure. A daily to-do-list can keep a person on track, especially when deadlines are near. As distractions are big problems for those with ADHD, time allowances should be factored in, just in case.

3. Take a Physical Break

It helps to take a scheduled physical break every once in a while to counter restlessness and boredom. Stretching the legs by standing at the cubicle or walking around the office can remove excess energy and boredom, allowing a person to focus once more. If allowed, small fidget toys can be helpful as long as colleagues are not disturbed.

4. Relaxation Techniques

Being able to relax during stressful times is very helpful in preventing temper outbursts that hurt the work environment. There are many methods of deep breathing or stretching that can be done at one’s cubicle.

Disclosing ADHD to Management

There are laws in place to protect people with disabilities or disorders: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the Rehabilitation Act (RA) of 1973. Adults with ADHD, however, are not automatically protected. Certain conditions must be met and the adult with ADHD is required to inform their employer of their condition to avail of protection.

While not everyone may want to inform their employer about their ADHD due to possible discrimination, it may be necessary if a person constantly fears to lose their job or if the employer has begun the process of firing the person due to performance failures.

Sometimes the reassurance one gets from the accommodations afforded by these laws can help an ADHD sufferer to do better. It may also enlighten colleagues of the situation, allowing them to become more understanding and supportive.

Change of Career

Another consideration is to switch careers. Many people, ADHD sufferer or not, find themselves in jobs they do not really like. This may be due to limited opportunities because of their educational background or perhaps because they were pushed into their current field through family or peer pressure.

For an adult with ADHD, it is doubly difficult to fit in if the career path is wrong as they are also dealing with symptoms that may counteract any gains made in the workplace. In such a situation, it may be best to find a job they really prefer while considering their ADHD symptoms.

For example, many with ADHD have succeeded in areas like entertainment, entrepreneurship, journalism, sales, or sports as these fields involve much travel and interaction with others. The constant movement and change of scenery fit in well with what they need to stay focused and engaged.

Christian Counseling for Adult ADHD

One other option many professionals are choosing is to get a personal coach to help them manage their life goals, both short term and long term. They are also able to motivate and encourage them during the trying times.

But rather than just getting any coach or counselor, it is more effective to seek the help of a Christian counselor. Aside from scheduling such future goals together, the Christian counselor can help the ADHD sufferer by applying the latest counseling methods to deal with problems that arise from their disorder. Many adults with ADHD struggle with acceptance issues, anxiety, and depression that need professional help.

But more importantly, the Christian counselor will connect them to Christ through prayer and meditation on Scripture. With a stronger relationship with God, the adult with ADHD can find that inner peace they have always been looking for as they will be able to view their circumstances through God’s loving eyes.

If you or a friend is struggling with ADHD at work, seek help soon. With God’s help, even the most difficult situations can be overcome.