The Rise of ADHD in Adults

How Employers Can Support Neurodivergent Employees

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of ADHD in adults. As someone working in the mental health sector, who also has ADHD, I understand the challenges it brings. However, with the right adaptations and strategies, employees like me can not only thrive but also bring unique strengths to the table.

Employers who make small thoughtful changes to accommodate neurodivergent employees can unlock a wealth of potential that might otherwise go unnoticed.

How ADHD May Present in Employees

It’s important for employers to recognise that ADHD may look different from person to person, especially in adults. While the stereotype of ADHD may involve being hyperactive or distracted, the condition can manifest in more subtle ways that may impact an employee’s work performance. Here are some common signs of how ADHD may present in employees:

• Difficulty with Focus: Employees with ADHD may struggle to concentrate on tasks for long periods. They may get easily distracted or have trouble staying engaged in meetings.
• Time Management Issues: Often, ADHD can make it difficult for employees to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, or manage time effectively. This may lead to procrastination or incomplete work.
• Forgetfulness: Forgetting meetings, deadlines, or even important details of a task can be common for individuals with ADHD. This can affect productivity and cause misunderstandings.
• Hyperfocus: While distractions are common, employees with ADHD may also experience hyperfocus—where they become so absorbed in one task that they lose track of time or ignore other responsibilities.
• Impulsivity: Employees may speak out of turn, interrupt others in meetings, or make quick decisions without thinking through the consequences. This isn’t out of rudeness, but is often due to ADHD’s influence on impulse control.
• Disorganisation: Employees with ADHD might struggle with keeping their workspace or files organised, which can make it harder for them to retrieve information or complete tasks efficiently.
• Restlessness: Hyperactivity in adults may present as restlessness or difficulty sitting still for long periods, which can make typical desk jobs feel challenging.

It’s important to remember that ADHD affects each person differently, and not every employee will exhibit all of these symptoms. By being aware of how ADHD may present, employers can take steps to provide the right accommodations and support neurodivergent employees.

Supporting the Needs of Neurodivergent Employees

When we look at the bigger picture of the workforce, we can see that by supporting employees with ADHD, you’re not just helping them—you’re building a more productive, resilient workforce. Employees with ADHD often bring strengths like problem-solving and the ability to think outside the box, which can benefit your company in unique ways.

ADHD is more common in adults than many realise, and as awareness increases, more individuals are being diagnosed later in life. According to recent studies, the number of adults with ADHD is rising, with many going undiagnosed for years. These individuals often experience stress and burnout in traditional work environments, which can lead to decreased productivity and high turnover rates. By providing the right support, you can foster a sense of belonging and increase employee retention.

What is RSD?

A less discussed but very impactful aspect of ADHD is Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria. RSD is a condition where individuals with ADHD experience extreme emotional sensitivity to perceived rejection or criticism. For someone with RSD, even constructive feedback can feel like a personal attack, leading to intense feelings of shame or failure. This heightened emotional response is not an overreaction but a neurological condition tied to ADHD.

Recognising RSD is crucial for creating a supportive work environment. Employers can help by fostering an atmosphere of empathy and understanding. Here are a few steps to consider:

• Provide feedback with care: Frame criticism constructively and offer positive reinforcement. Be mindful of your tone, as an overly harsh approach can be particularly harmful to employees with RSD.
• Offer private feedback: Public criticism, no matter how minor, can be overwhelming for someone with RSD. Providing feedback in a private, one-on-one setting can help reduce stress and allow the employee to process the information more effectively.
• Encourage open communication: Let employees know that it’s okay to talk about how they feel, especially when it comes to handling feedback. This creates a more trusting and open work environment where employees feel comfortable voicing their concerns.

Leveraging ADHD-Friendly Tools

In addition to structural changes, companies can implement ADHD-friendly tools like task management apps, digital planners, or checklists. These tools help employees stay organised, meet deadlines, and manage their workload efficiently.

Here at PsycApps, we have created the Resilience Training Programme, a CPD-Certified programme designed to help employees build mental resilience, manage stress, and stay productive in the face of challenges. This program isn’t just for neurodivergent employees—it’s a valuable resource for the entire team. By improving workplace resilience, it empowers employees to handle daily stressors more effectively, reducing burnout and increasing overall productivity, which is vital for long-term success. Learn more about the program and how it can benefit your team here.

Create a Resilient, Inclusive Workplace Today

Supporting employees with ADHD doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your company’s policies. With minor adjustments, you can create an environment that helps everyone, neurodivergent or not, succeed. The benefits? A more resilient, engaged, and productive workforce. Offering tools like our Resilience Training Programme can ensure that all employees, regardless of their neurodivergence, contribute to your company’s success.

To find out more about our solution, register your interest for the CPD-Certified  Resilience Training Programme below to find out how we can support your workplace.