What careers use ADHD strengths? Creative fields, emergency services, entrepreneurship, sales and technology roles are great for people with ADHD because they reward quick thinking, adaptability and hyperfocus.
Best Occupations for People with ADHD
Some adults with ADHD have very successful careers. Others may struggle with a variety of challenges, including poor communication skills, distractibility, procrastination and difficulty managing complex projects.
Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to focus and prioritize, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans. The inability to control impulses can range from impatience waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger. Adult ADHD symptoms may include: Impulsiveness.
ADHD Job Challenges
Career-related challenges are common for those with ADHD. Whether you're constantly job hopping or wondering if you're doing the right thing, these struggles are real and affect many of us.
The 30% rule estimates the delay ADHDers may experience in developing their executive function skills compared to peers of the same age. It suggests that those with ADHD may be around 30% behind their peers without the condition.
Avoid These 6 Jobs If You Have ADHD, According to an ADHD Psychologist
How it works: Commit to doing a task for just 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, you can stop—or often, momentum carries you forward. This leverages reduced overwhelm and the brain's reward system.
Why are my ADHD symptoms getting worse?
Increase stress relief by exercising outdoors—people with ADHD often benefit from sunshine and green surroundings. Try relaxing forms of exercise, such as mindful walking, yoga, or tai chi. In addition to relieving stress, they can teach you to better control your attention and impulses.
Understanding the 10 3 Rule for ADHD. Set a timer for 10 minutes and work on that task with full focus, knowing that a break is just around the corner. When the timer goes off, take a 3-minute break to reset your brain. The 10-3 Rule is a simple yet powerful productivity technique tailored to support the ADHD brain.
24-Hour Hot Spot: Have a designated area somewhere like your desk where you can place your “need to-dos.” Place anything there that needs your attention within 24 hours so that it doesn't get lost. Pocket Notes: Writing on your hand is risky; try writing important things on notes and putting them in your pocket.
7 Lifestyle changes to complement ADHD treatment
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including ADHD. Unlike psychologists or counselors, psychiatrists can prescribe medication, which is often a key component of ADHD treatment.
ADHD Burnout Cycle
It typically involves: Initial high levels of energy and motivation are often accompanied by hyperfocus. Overcommitment and pushing beyond one's limits due to a desire to keep up with demands. Gradual decline in energy and functioning as stress accumulates and coping mechanisms become depleted.
EMTs, police officers, and firefighters must work well under pressure and make split-second decisions. These jobs allow you to work in a variety of settings, while providing the kind of adrenaline-pumping excitement that helps many individuals with ADHD focus their minds.
Let's consider later in life, when children with ADHD grow up and enter adulthood. If we apply the 30% rule to a 60-year old, then the maturity level of a 60-year old with ADHD may appear more like a 40-something year old. Both of these ages are well into adulthood with similar roles and responsibilities.
Adolescence (Ages 13-18)
In adolescence, the academic and organizational challenges associated with ADHD can become more pronounced. ADHD symptoms in teen boys and girls may include: Difficulty completing assignments: Boys may struggle to manage long-term projects or meet deadlines.
As a Psychologist With ADHD, Here Are 6 Things That Get On Our...
For adults, 7-8 hours is recommended. Try to avoid napping during the day. Optimise your sleep environment. Make sure your environment is quiet, calm and comfortable.
If you love someone with ADHD, check out these five things NOT to say to them – even when you mean well.
11 ADD/ADHD DON'TS
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are also beneficial in calming the ADHD brain. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.
Studies suggest that people with ADHD often exhibit better-than-average coordination and reaction times, which makes them suited to fast-moving sports such as basketball or football, where quick decision-making and adaptability are essential [2][5]. ADHD can also be an advantage in academic and professional settings.