ADHD Accommodations in the Workplace

Do you tell or not?

This question crosses the minds of many people with ADHD. Unfortunately, there is no clear answer, which makes the process of deciding what to do stressful and a bit confusing. Pete and I dove into this topic in our most recent podcast.  

It’s should be discussed because the more we talk about it, the more awareness we can bring to ADHD and hopefully take out some of the stigma of what ADHD is and what it isn’t. 

If you are thinking about sharing your ADHD diagnosis, here are a few things to consider:

1) Who needs to know?

2) Why do they need to know?

3) Do you need any particular accommodations? 

4) Have you tried to overcome the challenge with your own ADHD strategies?

5) Can you ask your employer for accommodations without calling it that or have to mention your ADHD? For example, "I work best if I can take a 10 minute break every hour."  Or, "I am better able to focus when I can take notes."

Sometimes it’s not always clear what you might need, you just know you're overwhelmed and need something.

If that's the case, here are a few suggestions for workplace accommodations: 

• Request a workspace in a quiet area

• Telecommute

• Ask for a flexible start time

• Take short breaks throughout the day

• Have weekly meetings with your supervisor

• Record meetings

• Request assistance with breaking down large projects

• Ask for written instructions instead of verbal

• Use timers/alarms

• Get a large clock for your office space

• Utilize a white noise machine

The good news is, I often hear more success stories about how understanding and accepting employers are rather than the other way around. As Pete mentioned in the Podcast, your willingness to share could inspire others and you never know, you may just find yourself with a new friend at work who knows exactly what you are going through! 

Thank you for your time and attention...

Take Care,

Nikki