Getting fired and/or changing jobs a few times happen to many people. It’s definitely not uncommon for them to happen. It may not happen often or to everyone, but it does happen.
However, when ADHD is involved, it changes things quite a bit. Many adults with ADHD struggle when it comes to employment.
Surveys have been done, comparing ADHD vs non ADHD employment topics. It shows that only about half of those with ADHD are able to hold down a job. About three quarters of non ADHD adults are able to do the same. It also seems that ADHD adults are more likely to earn less than non ADHD adults with the same job, doing the same work, working the same hours, etc.
Definitely quite a difference.
For those who do keep the same job, there are definitely challenges there as well. If you have ADHD, know someone with ADHD, or have read some of my previous posts, you may know why it can be challenging.
There are definitely ways to help, when it comes to our job. Medication and/or therapy can be beneficial. While at work, writing things down and delegating are two ways that can help us be successful.
Not everyone may benefit from the same method. We are all different after all. It’s all about finding what works for us and helps us the most.
14 Comments
I don’t have ADHD, but I have to use to do lists to help me stay focused.
To do lists can be helpful whether you have ADHD or not. There are benefits to them.
What an interesting post. I don’t know any adults with ADHD but I have a lot of experience of little ones with it. It’s a shame that adults with ADHD are penalised, it should be recognised across all jobs and careers
Rosie
It really is a shame. It’s hard to see kids and adults being penalized. I agree. It should be recognized and more generally accepted.
This is such an important issue to be aware of as there can be any number of reasons that someone has had a number of jobs or even gaps in their employment. I hadn’t considered the impact that ADHD may have in this instance so that was important for me to learn about — thanks for sharing!
The gap in employment isn’t something that many be aware of. I thought it important to share. Thanks for reading!
Hi Dominique,
Are there certain types of jobs that are more difficult for those with ADHD?
Are there anti-discrimination regulations that would protect those with ADHD, in a similar way to race and gender regulations? (both in terms of getting fired and in terms of rates of pay).
These are definitely good questions. There are definitely jobs that are more challenging for those with ADHD. Jobs where attention to detail, for instance, is more challenging. As far as anti-discrimination regulations, there may be some. I am not aware at this time. This would be a good topic for a future post.
A very insightful post. Something I have never considered, but will now think about personally.
Thanks. I’m glad.
I think it’s incredibly unfair to be penalised for something that isn’t anyones fault. I guess this is because of lack of knowledge and understanding – we get taught so many things at school but never about the ‘real world’ and ‘real people’. Well done for raising awareness.
I totally agree with you. Well said. Thanks.
That’s so interesting! I never knew this but thank you so much for this interesting post!
Xoxo Annaleid
http://www.actuallyanna.com
This is a helpful post, I’d love to learn more on this topic as I don’t know much about ADHD and how it affects day to day life x