To disclose my ADHD at work?

[parrotonmyshoulder]

I don’t know whether this would be of benefit or a hindrance. Opportunity at appraisal to disclose to a line manager. Mostly my work is not affected in a way they would realise (medication works well). My untidiness and some other traits are generally regarded as ‘that’s just parrot…’. There is a specific type of work that I really struggle with (can’t do, avoid) which is a direct impact of the adhd when meds aren’t working (impact of menstrual cycle or time of day). I don’t know whether to just ask for help for this, or ask for help and explain the adhd. I feel it will be hard for an appraiser to understand why I can sometimes appear to be able to do this okay (eg in my interview!) and not other times.
It’s a numbers/ maths thing. Data analysis really. Small part of my job time wise, but important.
I wouldn’t be sharing this medical information with the whole work place. I don’t want this person to negatively perceive me either way!

You should disclose it- you are legally entitled to reasonable adjustments- especially if your condition impacts your work.

However, I’ve found it’s important to start these conversations with a “solution focussed” mindset- maybe a couple of ideas of things you think might help as managers can often be shocked and not know how to deal with the conversation so often you have to lead. I.e. I have ADHD, my medication mostly helps me cope but I really struggle with X bit of work, can we try Y solution to make sure I’m staying on top of it?”.

I also find that it’s important to make it clear that you want to “try” a solution and “see if it works” rather than assuming that it will! Ask for a check in in say 2 weeks or a month. This covers you in case it doesn’t work, I also do this if work make suggestions I’m not sure about- i.e I will trial this for 2 weeks and let you know my thoughts. Sometimes work have made suggestions that have been surprisingly helpful, sometimes I need to tell them it’s not helpful!

I’ve been declaring my autism and getting reasonable adjustments at work for about 5 years now so am a lot more comfortable then I used to be.

Thank you for your advice and insight. Sounds like your making it work well. I’m pretty nervous about it. I think I have a solution to suggest (which is basically someone doing this task with me).

I'm thinking about the same thing - I have told my manager but haven't asked for formal workplace adjustments.

It's interesting that you think your meds are affected by your menstrual cycle. I feel like mine aren't working at all at the mo and think that might be peri menopausal

I recently told my manager about my Asperger's diagnosis. I was really worried but it's actually been helpful as he's taking it into account when we're looking at future work and my training plan, etc. I'm the opposite of you and data is my strength so I'm being given more of that type of work and less of the interpersonal stuff that I can do but find incredibly draining and stressful.

I'm fortunate that my work and skill set are pretty well aligned but this has definitely made a difference for the better - I don't feel like I have to hide my difficulties in quite the same way.

I would share it if it benefits you.