Understanding ADHD in Adults

In New York, Jeremy Didier took her son to see a psychologist for a potential ADHD evaluation. While waiting, she stumbled upon an article discussing women with ADHD and found herself relating closely to the experiences described. “They’re describing me,” she thought.

Didier reflected on her upbringing, mentioning, “Lots of risk-taking, lots of very impulsive behavior growing up.” Although she did well academically, she often got in trouble for being overly talkative and accumulated a number of speeding tickets as an adult. It was in that moment of realization with her husband that she said, “I think I might have ADHD.”

Now, Didier serves as the board president of a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Her own discovery reflects a growing trend among adults who question whether they also have ADHD after their children receive a diagnosis.

This condition is generally characterized by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, or a mix of both, leading to various challenges, particularly in the workplace. Andrew Sylvester, a psychiatrist, notes that people with ADHD may struggle to concentrate during meetings, causing them to miss key points of discussion.

Interestingly, some adults start to view their ADHD as a unique strength. They argue that, despite being labeled a disorder, it can also serve as a sort of superpower. Didier pointed out that “our brains work differently,” allowing for creative thoughts that emerge from the need to adapt and thrive.

Coping Strategies

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis doesn’t always provide immediate solutions. While medication and therapy are often suggested, they are not universally effective. Didier recalls struggling with household chaos after being diagnosed alongside four of her five children. Through trial and error, she found that connecting with other parents facing similar challenges offered her the most support.

Eventually, she became a social worker, leading support groups for adults with ADHD. Some workplaces are also setting up employee resource groups focused on neurodiversity, creating networks for those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more.

Organizational Techniques

One of the hurdles for people with ADHD is executive function — essentially the brain’s navigation system for daily tasks. Didier describes it like a GPS that helps in planning, managing time, and maintaining focus. Experts recommend breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and using detailed to-do lists for clarity.

Bill Collins, a personal chef diagnosed with ADHD two years ago, uses structured lists to keep himself organized while cooking. He categorizes tasks and numbers them to maintain focus, addressing unpleasant tasks first to get them out of the way.

Another method gaining traction is “body doubling,” where two colleagues work together, either online or in-person, to boost accountability while completing different tasks. Didier mentioned that simply being there during designated work time can be incredibly effective.

Companies, like Liberty Mutual, are even employing AI tools designed to help break down projects into smaller tasks, along with reminders for deadlines, aiding employees with ADHD in staying organized and focused.

Navigating Meetings

Meetings can be particularly challenging for individuals with ADHD, who may find their minds wandering or struggle with impulse control. Nicole Clark, a mental health CEO, suggests obtaining meeting agendas in advance and jotting down important questions to keep engagement levels up.

Some employers utilize voice-to-text services that display spoken content on screens, helping those with attention difficulties maintain focus. Sylvester advises practicing active listening by mentally summarizing what’s being said and taking short breaks, if necessary.

Mariel Paralitici-Morales, a chief medical officer with ADHD, stays close to the speaker during meetings to help maintain her attention. Holding an object, like a fidget spinner, has been beneficial in staying engaged for her.

Workplace Accommodations

Those diagnosed with ADHD can seek accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Suggestions include using noise-canceling headphones or taking regular breaks, as Sylvester recommends setting timers to alternate between work and brief restorative periods.

Antoinette Damico, who works at an executive search firm, incorporates meditation, daily goal-setting, and avoiding distractions from short-form media to enhance her concentration.

Embracing Unique Strengths

ADHD can actually be an asset in various work settings, as many successful CEOs and entrepreneurs are neurodiverse. Didier points out that individuals with ADHD often bring unique talents, such as hyper-focus and creativity, to their workplaces.

Damico also sees her ADHD as a benefit, explaining how intense focus can lead to deep engagement with topics she finds interesting. “It creates this grit in me,” she added, noting the energy boost that comes when she’s motivated to accomplish something.