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I invite everyone to reflect on ADHD as a learning difference, often called an invisible disability, similar to how physical accommodations like ramps are necessary for those with mobility challenges. By normalizing neurodivergence, we can move away from shame and embrace individuality. There shouldn’t be a rigid "norm" because it prevents authenticity. Approaching employers about ADHD without feeling shame can foster understanding and even highlight its benefits. With proper education, workplaces can appreciate the strengths of ADHD, such as the ability to work intensely, explore various solutions, and strive for excellence in unique ways.
I’ve turned my ADHD into a win in my career by finding a way to work that partners with some of my ADHD traits. I hyper focus on details a lot, and can get caught going down the rabbit hole of “what ifs” when considering scenarios. I currently manage a team of analysts focused on process improvement and project implementation. I use those ADHD traits to help me identify risks in projects and spot trends in data.
The things that are detrimental to my work, I find way to manage. I struggle with keeping track of time, paying attention in meetings, and remembering all the things I need to do. Medication helps with some of it. I also find physically writing things down helps me remember better, so I keep a pile of notebooks by my desk and color code them based on the project or person I am talking to. Having a white board where write a “To-Do” list also helps.
I only disclosed my ADHD to my employer when I had to ask for accommodations (in this case it was due to us moving to a smaller office and me losing my private office - I can’t work at a cubicle - and have no space for a private office in my home)
I also make a point to showcase my ADHD as a challenge I’ve over come if I do ever talk about it professionally. This shifts people’s mindsets away from me being a risk or incapable and into me being a strong and disciplined person. I try not to discuss any of my struggles in a way that paints me as sympathy seeking - not because I don’t think I don’t deserve sympathy, but because in a professional setting that tends to be looked down on - especially coming from a woman.
Not saying any of that is right, it’s just how it is - and the only way to change perceptions about ADHD in the professional world is to make it as digestible as possible for those who don’t understand. If we take those baby steps now, hopefully we can build more awareness and understanding and normalize talking about things like ADHD as professionals without worrying about it changing the way we are regarded in our careers.
I agree with the above posting. Unless you seeking g accommodation I would keep any personal health information to yourself. These days employers are looking for any reason to eliminate staff. Especially if it means you will be prescribed a stimulant as part of your treatment plan.
Because it's a control. Stimulants are basically legal cocaine.
Chief
I probably wouldn’t unless you’re expecting an accommodation. And then I would be very careful about how you tell them so it cannot be used against you later.
What! She should tell them and it should never be used against her. She’s in a protected class because adhd is considered a disability, not that she wants to use that as a crutch.
I have never told my manager because I don't need any sort of accomodation. Although I suspect because I work in mental health that she can tell when I have not taken my meds and can't focus haha. But there is no reason to tell them unless you need some sort of accomodation.
Work out everyday, meditate, practice breathing, write to do lists, journal and talk to your doctor about different medicines. There are many out there and some are non-stimulants. I don’t see a reason to say anything in my opinion as you don’t want it to use it against you.
I don’t understand why people are saying her ADHD diagnosis can be used against her. All she needs is a doctors diagnosis letter and if she needs accommodations, she should submit her request in writing. Put everything in writing and if they should retaliate against her, she has an EEOC case. Look it up!
I definitely wouldn't me being a director in my department.
I have worked in Healthcare field for the last 20ish years. I have bipolar diagnosis. I really never told anyone about this because to me it's mind over the diagnosis. You do your best.
I also have a bipolar diagnosis and have worked in healthcare for twenty years or so. If you do not disclose your diagnosis with your employer you run the risk of being terminated when you go through the physical health screening which is part of onboarding. It can be a touchy situation. There's a lot of prejudice out there for anyone carrying the label of a major mental illness even around people who should know better.
Chief
It depends. If sharing helps you get accommodations like clear deadlines or fewer distractions, it could benefit both you and your manager. But only share if you’re comfortable and trust they'll support you.
I agree with this take. I informed my previous manager, as she was a very understanding person and it helped us both perform our job duties more easily. But, I have a new manager and I haven't said anything, as I don't think they would be as open to that. Depends on the individual.
I would not tell my manager. Unless you want to be let go. Lots of discrimination in the workplace.
First get assistance from the ADA so you have backup support and more job security.
Yes you should. You may need accommodations. Put everything in writing and keep up with paper trail. I too have adhd, adult onset. It interferes with my work. I have problems focusing at times and get very distracted and anxious. Tell your manager and show them the paperwork. You’re now in a protected class.
I would not share that info. Do see, if you haven’t already, a medical professional. The medication helps tremendously.
As someone who had to take a leave of absence from the work field when I came back on I did have to explain it was due to health reasons. I thought my doctor was understanding of these as she hired me and we had a steady professional relationship towards the end of my time with her after a year she started making little remarks about “as long as I stay on my meds” or how she “puts up with my issues” because I perform well. I was later terminated and on my termination letter stated many things that had never been brought to my attention. Unless you’re obligated. Which you’re not unless you must have accommodations, keep your business private.
Rising Star
You should find the proper way to inform the facility of the diagnosis and treatment you will be on. It protects you. Sometimes the flightiness associated with ADHD can be taken poorly in performance reviews and things. Also the medication you are on to help should be declared incase of a later drug test. You could wait until/unless tested but then you are pushing a rolling ball back up hill when that text comes positive for benzos
I have never run into an employer that would support any limitations any employee might or might not have. For this reason, I say no. Do not tell your manager unless you work for one of those companies the rest of us see on billboards.
Yes Unless it gets to an alarming level of inflation of Self, No No Sleep need.Normally my Anxiety medication and Lunesta helps but after coming home from Ukraijni I have to cont given back. But I’m joining “The International Legion For Defense of Ukraijni” and after our home invasion I don’t feel safe anywhere. I don’t have a lot but I want to get decent help when I’m finally reaching out