Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often thought of as a childhood condition, but many adults navigate life without realising they may have it. For many, undiagnosed ADHD can fly under the radar for years, with coping mechanisms and routines masking the signs. However, in more structured settings like the workplace, certain behaviours might become more noticeable and lead to frustration. If you’ve ever wondered whether you might have ADHD, especially after struggling in a work environment, it’s important to reflect on some common signs.

Neurodiversity, which includes ADHD, describes the natural variation in human brain function and behaviour. While all people have strengths and weaknesses, neurodivergent individuals may process information or handle tasks differently from the neurotypical population. If you’re finding that you struggle in specific areas, especially at work, these could be signs of undiagnosed ADHD.

 

1. Struggling with Timekeeping

Time management can be one of the biggest challenges for adults with undiagnosed ADHD. You might find yourself consistently late, not because you don’t care but because your perception of time can be different from others’. If being on time requires a tremendous amount of effort—like setting multiple alarms, using timers, or rushing at the last minute—you may burn out before the workday has even begun.

You might feel anxious about being late, even though you try to leave the house early or plan ahead. This can create a cycle of stress, where your day feels like it’s starting on the back foot. While everyone struggles with time occasionally, if this is a constant theme in your life, ADHD could be a factor.

 

2. Overworking and Taking on Extra Tasks

Many adults with ADHD have creative minds brimming with ideas. While this can be a great asset at work, it often leads to taking on more tasks than you can reasonably handle. You may find yourself offering to solve problems or stepping into roles beyond your remit because your brain is always racing to come up with solutions.

Although you may have the best intentions, this overworking can lead to burnout. In fact, many undiagnosed adults feel they must work harder than their peers to keep up, often juggling several projects at once. Over time, this tendency to take on too much can lead to exhaustion and stress.

 

3. Difficulty Prioritising Tasks

One of the hallmark symptoms of ADHD is difficulty with executive function—essentially, the brain’s management system that helps you prioritise tasks, make decisions, and follow through. If you find yourself torn between what you think you should be doing and what you feel like doing, this could be a sign.

Many people with ADHD struggle to follow conventional advice, such as “tackle the hardest task first.” Instead, they may find themselves drawn to smaller, less urgent tasks, using these as a way to ease into the workday. This can result in an ever-growing to-do list, with the most important tasks always getting pushed to the bottom.

 

4. Insufficient Sleep

A common experience for many adults with ADHD is inconsistent sleep patterns. You may struggle to fall asleep at night, as your brain remains active and alert during the evening. This hyperactivity can make it difficult to switch off, leading to poor sleep.

Equally, waking up in the morning can be a challenge. No matter how much sleep you’ve had, it may never feel like enough. This constant struggle to balance your energy levels can make daily life, and especially work, feel draining.

 

5. Restlessness at Work

Do you often feel restless during long meetings? Do you need to move around frequently or find it difficult to stay seated for extended periods? Restlessness is a common trait of ADHD and can manifest as an inability to sit still or focus for prolonged periods.

You may find yourself needing to fidget or take frequent breaks to refocus. In traditional office settings, this can be misinterpreted as inattentiveness or disinterest, but it may simply be your brain’s way of managing its energy levels.

 

6. Oversharing in Conversations

Do you sometimes find yourself oversharing with colleagues or even strangers, only to regret it afterwards? Many adults with ADHD struggle with impulse control, particularly in social settings. This can lead to talking too much, saying things that are too personal, or revealing information that you later wish you’d kept private.

While this isn’t always a problem, it can lead to feelings of anxiety or self-doubt after social interactions. You might replay conversations in your head, worrying that you said the wrong thing or shared too much.

 

Next Steps: Reaching Out for Support

If you found yourself nodding along to any of these points, it might be worth exploring whether you have ADHD. Speaking to a medical professional is the first step in seeking a diagnosis. They can guide you through the process and provide advice on managing symptoms in your everyday life.

ADHD doesn’t just affect your work life—it impacts every aspect of your daily routine. However, with the right support, you can create strategies that work with your brain rather than against it. Recognising the signs is an empowering first step.

At Enna, we specialise in helping businesses become more inclusive and understanding of neurodiversity. If you think your workplace could benefit from better neurodiversity training, we offer comprehensive workshops that educate employers on how to support neurodivergent individuals like those with ADHD.

Our training provides practical strategies for integrating and supporting neurodivergent talent, helping businesses make meaningful adjustments to workplace culture. These adaptations benefit not just individuals with ADHD but also contribute to a more inclusive and innovative work environment.

Additionally, if you’re a neurodivergent jobseeker, diagnosed or not, we offer support to help you find meaningful employment. Navigating the world of work with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right guidance and support, you can find a role that suits your strengths.

 

Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re an employer looking to better support neurodiverse employees or a jobseeker seeking the right opportunities, Enna is here to help. Explore our neurodiversity training workshops or contact us today for personalised support. Let’s work together to build a more inclusive future.