ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, can impact approximately 8.7 million adults in the United States. However, there are still numerous misconceptions surrounding the experience of working with ADHD. While ADHD can present challenges like distractibility, impulsivity, procrastination, and difficulties with time management, many adults with ADHD have successful careers. Licensed mental health counselor Micheline Maalouf, who has ADHD, highlighted the importance of accepting the diversity of minds and behaviors in the workplace. Rather than focusing on the difficulties associated with working alongside a coworker with ADHD, it is more beneficial to leverage their strengths for the collective benefit of the team.
To shed light on the realities of working with ADHD, HuffPost sought input from professionals who shared their perspectives on how colleagues and clients can better understand and support individuals with ADHD. One common misconception is that people with ADHD are lazy. Cristi Jayo, co-founder of a remote design agency, emphasized that ADHD is not inherently positive or negative; it simply reflects a different way of thinking. While ADHD can offer certain advantages, it also presents challenges. Jaki Milakovic, an HR professional based in Indianapolis, explained that ADHD allows her to hyper-focus on tasks but also leads to issues with boundaries, burnout, and a past leave of absence. Milakovic shared that misunderstandings often arise when people assume her lack of productivity is due to laziness, rather than the difficulty she faces in starting and completing tasks.
The perception of disorganization in individuals with ADHD is another area that requires clarification. Marissa Miluk, a registered dietitian in South Carolina with ADHD, urged others not to judge based on outward appearances. A messy desk may actually be an organized system for individuals with ADHD. The ability to locate items within seemingly chaotic spaces is a unique competence. Interruptions can significantly disrupt the workflow of individuals with ADHD. Miluk mentioned how colleagues dropping by her desk in the middle of a task would derail her focus. Milakovic also highlighted the detrimental impact of interruptions, explaining that timing tasks and setting boundaries have been helpful strategies for her. Written communication, like Slack chats or emails, can be preferred by individuals with ADHD as it allows them to better understand task expectations. Asking about the preferred mode of communication can help facilitate effective collaboration.
Staying focused can manifest differently in individuals with ADHD, so it is important not to make assumptions about their work ethic. Maalouf explained that individuals with ADHD often have a tendency to focus on multiple tasks simultaneously, resulting in a sense of busyness. Contrary to popular belief, they can excel under pressure and meet tight deadlines, especially when engaged in stimulating work. Taking breaks is also crucial for individuals with ADHD, as it helps prevent burnout. While different from the norm, these breaks provide mental rejuvenation and enhance overall productivity. It is important to respect individual work styles and avoid assuming that colleagues with ADHD should adhere to traditional approaches.
It is essential to listen to individuals with ADHD and acknowledge their expertise in understanding their own minds. Miluk noted that misconceptions often lead to assumptions that ADHD individuals are scattered, forgetful, or reliant on constant supervision. In reality, individuals with ADHD are driven, hardworking, and efficient when provided with an environment that accommodates their cognitive needs. Completing tasks close to the deadline can still be deemed successful for individuals with ADHD, as they often thrive under time constraints. Effective communication is key to aligning expectations and fostering understanding among colleagues. Creating an environment that supports the strengths of individuals with ADHD can lead to greater success and productivity.
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