Supporting Employees with ADHD in the Workplace
The Prevalence of Adults with ADHD in Canada
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect behavior, focus, and memory. It is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in Canada, affecting 4 to 6% of adults in the country. Adult diagnoses have been increasing in recent years, highlighting the need for inclusive and supportive workplace practices.
ADHD and the Workplace
ADHD can have an impact on employees and teams, but there are important steps employers can take to help employees with ADHD perform at their best. Small changes in support and workplace structure can make a significant difference in helping someone with ADHD feel more supported. It’s important to remember that each person’s experience with ADHD is unique, so maintaining an open dialogue is crucial for understanding an individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Raising Awareness and Understanding about ADHD
Helping employees with ADHD succeed involves raising awareness and understanding about ADHD among leadership and staff. This includes understanding the symptoms and challenges individuals may experience and the importance of discussing workplace changes or accommodations. Stigma related to ADHD, including misconceptions and minimizing the impact of symptoms, can hinder the effectiveness of individuals with ADHD in the workplace. Educating leaders and staff and fostering an inclusive and supportive environment can help reduce this stigma.
Workplace Accommodations for ADHD
Workplace accommodations can help employees manage their condition and symptoms, increasing their productivity and efficiency. Recognizing that people with ADHD bring unique assets and skills to the workplace, individualized accommodations can address specific needs and help employees flourish. Open discussions with staff members can determine the most effective accommodation.
Possible Workplace Accommodations:
- Quiet workspace: Some people with ADHD prefer a quiet workspace with minimal distractions. They may also use noise-cancelling headphones or white-noise machines to manage distractions.
- Flexible schedule: For some people with ADHD, following typical working hours can be challenging. Discussing flexible hours with more frequent breaks can be beneficial.
- Structured task management: Help employees with ADHD organize and structure their day to improve productivity. Encourage the use of lists and task-tracking strategies.
- Regular check-ins: Schedule frequent check-ins to help employees stay on task, provide guidance, and address any concerns.
Source: Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance. (n.d.). ADHD prevalence. Retrieved from CADDRA
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