Lack of awareness of ADHD has meant many people living with this behavioural disorder find it difficult to find and hold down a job. But with the right support, people living with ADHD can thrive and make a significant contribution to your organisation.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects between 2% and 5% of the general population. Although it is commonly associated with childhood, symptoms continue into adulthood. In fact, having a first diagnosis as an adult is becoming increasingly common.
Employees with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can face unique challenges at work. They typically have persistent difficulties with inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity, or both. The symptoms can vary greatly, from one individual to another.
Some people may struggle with time management or organisation, others with focus and attention. These issues can have a significant impact on how an employee performs at work and on those who work with them.
Positive traits of ADHD
ADHD is not always a barrier to being successful at work. Indeed, there are many traits associated with ADHD that can be extremely positive. By encouraging and developing an employee with ADHD, your organisation can benefit from valuable skills such as:
- Creative thinking – finding solutions that others may not think of
- Hyperfocus – periods of extraordinary focus and productivity
- Crisis management – an ability to quickly absorb large amounts of information and assess multiple options
Supporting ADHD in the workplace
Online mental health support for employees living with ADHD can benefit your whole organisation.
At a time when mental health services are under immense pressure, people with ADHD are finding it increasingly difficult to access treatment. That means your employees may be coming to work with little or no support to help them manage their symptoms.
ADHD is a recognised disability. So, employees with a diagnosis are protected under the Equality Act, 2010. Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations to support ADHD in the workplace and adapt a role or working environment for an employee with ADHD.
There are plenty of simple but effective ways organisations can support employees with ADHD. These might include:
- Educating the workforce
- Offering flexible work arrangements
- Recognising achievements
- Providing quiet spaces
- Checking in regularly with employees
But you can go beyond that by offering more comprehensive support with the SilverCloud® ADHD Programme. Based on clinical recommendations, this programme teaches a range of practical strategies to help participants improve their organisation, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Immediate access to ADHD support
People with ADHD often experience long delays in getting a diagnosis and accessing treatment. The ADHD Programme is available on demand, with 24/7 access from any digital device. That allows users to access the programme at a time that suits them, often from the comfort of their own home.
The ADHD Programme draws on the strategies of CBT, which are proven to be effective at treating ADHD. As well as helping the user tackle common traits of ADHD, such as procrastination and time management, the programme also helps users manage symptoms of anxiety that often accompany ADHD, and to live their lives fully.
The ADHD Programme can be used by managers and HR teams to improve their awareness of, and understanding about, the challenges that employees with ADHD may face – and how best to support them. Early evaluation has found that 60% of participants ‘liked’ the programme, and 40% ‘strongly liked’ the programme.
Empowering Minds: a holistic approach to supporting people with ADHD examines the challenges faced by people living with ADHD through the perspectives of real people and clinical experts. Download your copy for free.
Sources:
Nice Guidelines on Managing ADHD in Adults
British Medical Journal Best Practice: ADHD in Adults
ADHD in adults: good practice guidelines Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland
