Roché Herbst – M.A.R. Psych – Aug 2022

What can I study at college and work in as a career with ADHD

Over the years, many people have reached out to me because they were having challenges with their jobs or career choices. The fact is ADHD does not categorize who or what you can be. It does not have to limit your choice. When you find your path by aligning your values, personality and potential capability, then you can work in any career you want. The key to doing this successfully is to know yourself, to be realistic and to manage your ADHD.

What types of jobs do people with ADHD do well?

Much depends on your ADHD and/or any co-existing conditions you may have i.e. anxiety, depression, perfectionism, giftedness, learning disorder, etc. Well, consider those things that challenge you in a way that does not overwhelm or underwhelm you.

What about the work environment?

Enjoying what you do is one thing. It is equally important that the work environment is a good fit for you. Some people want freedom and autonomy, some appreciate well-defined structure, others want something creatively challenging and complex, may enjoy teamwork or simply “never the same day twice”. Do you feel valued, supported and have the freedom to ask for accommodations in your workplace where needed?

What are some compatible jobs?

ADHD strengths may be used more than others, for example when:

• Thinking on your feet, switching quickly between tasks – Teachers, Daycare workers.
• Dealing with people variety and topics with quick assignment turnarounds, short attention span, low boredom tolerance, hard deadlines may be a challenge – Journalist, Editor, Public Relations.
• Creative, short-term focusing on the task at hand, jumping from task to task quickly, taking immediate steps to create a finished product – Food industry worker, Chef, Beautician, Hair stylist.
• Flexible hours, autonomy – Entrepreneurs, Business owners, Realty.
• Crises management, split-second decision making, hands-on thinking, adrenaline-pumping excitement can help focus the mind – EMT, Medical, Police, Fire, Search and Rescue.
• Working with others or independently to solve problems, create or troubleshoot codes or programs, harnessing that hyperfocus on small details – Mechanics, Technicians, Scientists, Programmers.
• Fast-paced artistic environment of creative chaos – Choreographer, Comedian, Stage manager, Musician, Producer.

Where do I begin?

In everything there is a chance to learn, to grow, to learn and to be your best self.

• What are my strengths – this is not the time to be modest!
• What activities capture my attention and keep me engaged?
• What types of activities don’t I like and why not?
• What energizes me?
• What are my values?

Sources:
Quinn, P. (Ed.) ADDitude: Jobs for ADHD minds. Monthly subscription magazine.
Wilkowske, D.R. (2007), The Chronic Job Hopper, iUniverse Inc: New York.