ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, can affect up to an estimated8.7 million adultsin the United States.
Sometimes, having ADHD can be both an asset and a challenge.
People just assume that because Im not getting things done that Im being lazy.
But really, its like the inability of figuring out where to start, Milakovic said.
Not being able to set boundaries is a huge difficulty, she continued.
So it just kind of snowballs from there.
A desk may look messy to you but be perfectly organized for a professional with ADHD.
What you may see as disorganization may make complete sense to someone with ADHD.
ADHD-ers create systems within their own worlds that work for them, Maalouf said.
Interruptions can really throw off their day.
Miluk recalled co-workers coming by to chat in the office could really throw off her workflow.
Similarly, Milakovic said interruptions were disruptive.
Since her ADHD diagnosis, Milakovic plans how long tasks will take by timing herself as much as possible.
I was thinking about something else at that time, she said.
can be helpful for professionals with ADHD to hear, Milakovic suggested.
But without those breaks, Ill easily burn out, Miluk said.
Those breaks can actually sort of re-stimulate the mind.
From an outsiders perspective, theyre like, Oh my god, you havent gotten up from this chair.
Ultimately, listen and understand that the person with ADHD knows how their mind works best.
My brain works best when I have a deadline crunch.
And I get things done very efficiently in that short amount of time, Miluk said.
I have two days.
Miluk said clear communication is one way for professionals like her to get on the same page with colleagues.
Have you tried scheduling time for yourself?
Or would you like to try body doubling?
And then you could really take the reins of your work experience.
This article originally appeared onHuffPost.
