Prevalence of ADHD in adults in the UK

NHS data suggests that around 3-4% of UK adults may have ADHD, although diagnosis rates are lower than this. Furthermore, due to greater awareness and improved access to health services, diagnoses are increasing. However, there are still long waiting lists across the UK, even within private diagnostic services. Historically, ADHD was more commonly diagnosed in children, but the demand for adult assessments has surged in recent years. If like me, you spent years moving from job to job/promotion to promotion, suddenly things make sense. Perfectionism, Rejection Sensitivity and Impulsivity are just some symptoms that don’t make sticking to the same job easy. So, are there such things as jobs for people with ADHD?

ADHD Symptoms

There are three presentations of ADHD (detailed here) and symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. There are also specific stages in life where symptoms can be exacerbated such as puberty for both sexes; and post-childbirth and menopause for women. Many women have lived the majority of their lives being misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression. They then find when they hit menopause (coincidently when their children may have not long been diagnosed themselves) that life becomes unbearably difficult.

According to research, around 50-75% of women with ADHD are undiagnosed in childhood, often struggling with symptoms that are masked by coping mechanisms or misinterpreted as personality traits like being forgetful or disorganised. However, late diagnosis continues due to lingering misconceptions about how ADHD presents differently in males and females.

ADHD Strengths

We now know that neurodivergence brings with it some specific skills. What is even more exciting is that these skills are now highly sought after in the workplace! But what are those skills, how can you set yourself apart for NTs (neurotypicals) in the job market?

• Ability to stay focused on a topic or activity of interest for long periods.
• Outside-the-box thinking, which can lead to innovative solutions to challenges.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Superior ability to recognise patterns, including in codes and behaviours.
• Strong skills in areas such as music, art, technology, and science.

Examples of Jobs for adults with ADHD

Here are some job suggestions that align with your strengths, making them a good fit for individuals with ADHD:

1. Creative Fields:
   • Graphic Designer
   • Photographer
   • Writer/Journalist
   • Marketing Specialist
   • Video Editor
2. Entrepreneurship:
   • Freelancer (design, writing, consulting, etc.)
   • Small Business Owner
3. Fast-paced or Physical Jobs:
   • Event Planner
   • Chef or Cook
   • Paramedic
   • Sales Representative
   • Personal Trainer
4. Helping Professions:
   • Teacher (particularly special education and early education)
   • Therapist or Counselor
   • Social Worker
   • Nurse
5. Tech & Engineering:
   • Software Developer
   • IT Specialist
   • Data Analyst
6. Project-based Work:
   • Consultant
   • Architect
   • Researcher
   • Project Manager
7. Outdoor or Active Work:
   • Landscape Gardener
   • Construction Worker
   • Gamekeeper
   • Land Manager / Park Ranger

It’s important to consider environments that provide flexibility, and clear structure when needed. Finding a career that plays to your strengths, can lead to long-term satisfaction and success.

Fay x

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