AD/HD and Employment

Even if an individual graduates high school or college, he or she is not through dealing with AD/HD-related difficulties. As discussed earlier, AD/HD affects all aspects of daily life, including jobs. Adults with AD/HD tend to have higher rates of unemployment than “normal” adults; they tend to use more sick days, be less productive and change jobs more often than their peers, and they are more likely to be dismissed or fired by employers.

As mentioned in my previous post, Effects of AD/HD on Education, vocational assessment often helps guide adults with AD/HD into the most appropriate areas of employment based on their individual skill sets. Working jobs appropriate to your skills or habits will increase your ability to perform acceptably, retain your position and receive satisfactory ratings from supervisors.

Appropriate medication or other treatment is also important for job success. Individuals with AD/HD tend to be more accident prone, even on the job. Effectively treating your AD/HD symptoms can not only help you succeed in your career, it can also help prevent work-related injuries or accidents.

Much like primary school and college instructors, many employers are willing to make small concessions for employees who have AD/HD; thus, it is important to tell your supervisors about your AD/HD-related difficulties. You should also feel free to request reasonable workplace adjustments (e.g. asking to be placed in a quieter or more secluded office) to help you focus and increase productivity.

Because of their difficulties in supervised professional settings, many adults with AD/HD start their own businesses; this often results in a positive economic impact by creating specialty or niche markets. However, self-employed adults with AD/HD should establish quotas or guidelines for themselves to ensure that their business remains productive and profitable - otherwise, they may find themselves right back in the job pool.