What it looks like:
Career differences for individuals with ADHD can manifest in various ways, both positive and negative, based on the individual’s unique symptoms, the severity of those symptoms, and the tools, strategies, and other supports at their disposal:
- Difficulty with time management and meeting deadlines
- Struggles with organizational tasks and paperwork
- Challenges in maintaining focus during meetings or on repetitive tasks
- Impulsivity in decision-making or communication
- High creativity and innovative thinking
- Ability to hyperfocus on engaging tasks
- Frequent job changes due to boredom or difficulties
- Challenges with long-term career planning or work projects
- Struggles with hierarchical structures or rigid work environments
- Difficulty with multitasking or juggling multiple responsibilities
- Strengths in crisis management or high-pressure situations
- Challenges with consistent performance over time
- Misunderstandings or conflicts with colleagues
- Strengths in fields requiring quick thinking or adaptability
Some important callouts:
- The employment rate for adults with ADHD is 67%, whereas for adults without ADHD but with a college degree, it reaches as high as 87%.
- Adults with ADHD earn 17% less income than those without the condition.
- Adults with ADHD are less likely to be employed full-time compared to adults without ADHD (47% vs. 62%).
- Employees with ADHD are less likely to receive promotions compared to their peers without mental health conditions.
