Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known by its abbreviation ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to regulate attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. ADHD affects various facets of your life and including the workplace. In Hong Kong, around 5-7% of the general population is believed to be suffering from ADHD with a similar percentage affecting the workplace. With this revelation, it goes without saying that addressing ADHD in the workplace is key.
Why is this so? Well, Addressing ADHD in the workplace is instrumental in the sense that it improves the quality of life of the employees as well as benefits the workplace as a whole. In essence, the significance of managing ADHD in the workplace lies in the fact that it has an impact on job performance, job satisfaction, as well as career advancement for those suffering from the disorder. In as much as those with ADHD in Hong Kong experience a myriad of challenges, all hope is not lost. If the disorder can be effectively managed, individuals with ADHD can lead fulfilling and successful careers.
Understanding ADHD in the Workplace
How do you tell if one or several people in the workplace are suffering from ADHD? It’s imperative to note that individuals suffering from ADHD in the workplace experience difficulties paying attention, are impulsive, and also hyperactive. The result is difficulty in completing tasks, disorganization, as well as poor time management all of which have a negative impact on a person’s job performance.
Individuals with ADHD in Hong Kong and across the globe have difficulties meeting deadlines, are prone to making mistakes, and generally have lower productivity all of which impact their job performance and ultimately stall their career development. Simply put, Individuals with ADHD in the workplace have a difficult time trying to prove their mettle and securing promotions. When this happens, they tend to be frustrated, their motivation takes a nosedive, stress and anxiety become the order of the day, and this ultimately negatively impacts their morale and turnover.
Navigating Employment in the Workplace with ADHD
While you might feel a little uncomfortable disclosing your disorder to your employer, it’s highly recommended that you do. It is important for your employer to understand that you have challenges with ADHD in order to accommodate you and make your time in the workplace as comfortable as possible.
If you are finding it difficult to disclose your disorder to your employer, there are a number of advocacy organizations that support individuals with ADHD disclose their condition to employers. Most importantly, you need to know and understand your rights and this includes your right to request for accommodations.
When we talk about accommodations, we are basically talking about such things as assistive technology, flexible working arrangements, and modified job duties to make those with ADHD in the workplace to be as comfortable as possible. As those with ADHD have different needs, it is greatly recommended that employers work with employees and provide accommodations that meet their individual and specific needs.
In conclusion, it’s important that individuals suffering from ADHD in Hong Kong liaise with their employers and address the challenges they face at the workplace. Gone are the days of stigmatization. To improve your job performance and satisfaction, you can benefit from a number of strategies which include utilizing medications and other treatments, developing organizational and time management skills, as well as seeking support from colleagues, friends, and family. By so doing, you can lead a successful and rewarding career in Hong Kong!
