I wonder if there are other parents of young adults with ADHD who are struggling with work.
DS is 18, has been in and out of jobs since he was 16. He has no qualifications due to being a school refuser. He has had quite a few jobs in the last couple of years but can’t keep them. He has worked in fast food restaurants, retail, warehouses etc.
The issues he has are mainly time management. He runs late a lot which of course doesn’t create a good impression, gets bored very easily and generally struggles with being told what to do. I know this doesn’t sound great.
On the other hand he is extremely likeable and funny and therefore is popular which is a good thing! He has managed to get away with a lot with various managers due to being charming and being able to talk his way out of situations where he hasn’t performed up to standard.
His Dad and I are very supportive and we have a strong work ethic. We help him a lot with job applications, interview practice. We have suggested several alarms and timers to help with his time management, put his work clothes and shoes in a specific place so he knows exactly where they are in the morning. Got him a little tray by the door to keep his keys in, bought him a tile so he can always locate keys, wallet, phone etc.
He’s currently working in a warehouse but they are letting him go next week. Although it was only a temporary contract I think if he had worked harder and created a better impression he may have been taken on permanently (as other new starters are).
He is inherently lazy, although I’m really hoping he will grow out of this. He realises that he needs to work to earn money which obviously motivates him to an extent, he likes having money! however can’t seem to grasp the importance of good time keeping, and how to behave in a manner that will create a good impression and therefore make his job more secure.
Are there other parents in the same boat? What sort of jobs do your young adult children have if they struggle in these areas?