The ADHD symptoms that caused you problems in school can also cause problems in your career, right? You probably struggle with things like staying focused, remembering things, planning, and getting things done. As a result, finding and keeping your dream job can be a challenge. But don't worry. You're not alone. There are ways to help. Let's talk about it.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation?
Simply put, this is a specialized counseling and support service that helps people with mental or physical disabilities, such as ADHD, find a job that matches their skills and interests and succeed in that job. It is like a guide who shows the way to someone who is lost and unable to find their way.
A program like this can greatly reduce the stress and anxiety you feel when looking for a job. It can also help you find a career path that is not just a job, but one that you can truly enjoy and succeed in. You don't have to give up on your dreams. All you need is a little support.
How does ADHD affect my job?
ADHD can directly affect many of the skills needed for success at work. You may not realize this, but it's not until a superior or colleague points it out to you. Let's look at the main areas where it's most likely to be affected.
| Ability to be influenced | Possible problem at work |
|---|---|
| Maintaining attention | When I'm working, my mind suddenly gets distracted. Things said in meetings get in the way. I get distracted easily. |
| Get organized | The desk and files are messy. It's hard to organize things. You can't find important documents. |
| Learning new things | It takes a long time to learn new software, new methods, etc. It's hard to understand a set of instructions. |
| Following instructions | Some steps are forgotten in a series of instructions given by the boss, and as a result, the work goes wrong. |
| Meet deadlines | Work gets delayed because you can't manage your time. Deadlines get in the way. |
| Interpersonal relationships | You tend to say whatever comes to your mind at once, which can cause problems with others and make it difficult to work together in a team. |
Because of these issues, surveys have shown that people with ADHD have a relatively high rate of unemployment and low income. But with the right support, this situation can be completely reversed.
How does this vocational rehabilitation service work?
This is not a one-size-fits-all service. This is a personalized program that is completely tailored to your strengths, weaknesses, and career goals.
First, you will meet with a career counselor who specializes in this area. He or she will talk to you, understand your situation, and help you create an "Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) . This is similar to the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that some children receive at school. This plan clearly outlines your talents, your strengths, and how ADHD is hindering you from finding a job .
Then, you and your counselor will work together to choose a career goal that suits you. Then, you will decide what services you need to get to that goal.
| Available services | Description |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic tests | Psychological tests can be performed to confirm that you have ADHD and to understand exactly how it affects your ability to work. |
| Professional aptitude tests | Tests that measure your abilities, skills, experience, and interests. Based on the results, you can choose the job field that best suits you. |
| Providing training | If your chosen career requires any training, degree, or professional qualification, we will provide guidance and support in obtaining those things. |
| Referral for employment | They will advise you on how to properly fill out a job application, how to answer questions during an interview, and can also connect you with hiring agencies. |
| Devices and Assistive Technology | They help with getting things like uniforms and tools needed for work. They also educate about technology tools like reminder apps and text-to-speech tools that can help manage ADHD symptoms. |
Your mentor will be with you throughout this entire process. Even after you start working, they will check on your progress and provide you with any necessary advice during the first few months.
How can I find help in Sri Lanka?
This is a problem that many people have. Although countries like America have government agencies dedicated to this purpose, in Sri Lanka you have to try a little differently to find this service. Don't worry, there are places where you can get help.
- Step One - Your Doctor: The best and first thing you should do is talk to your doctor about this. Especially if you talk to a psychiatrist or psychologist, they can give you the guidance you need. They may know of specialist counselors or organizations that provide such services.
- Department of Social Services: You can find out more about vocational training programs and self-employment assistance for people with disabilities through the offices of the Department of Social Services at the district level.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): There are a number of NGOs operating in Sri Lanka that work for people with mental health and disabilities. If you search online or in your area, you can find career guidance and training from such organizations.
- Private Career Counselors: Career counselors who specialize in conditions like ADHD provide services on a private level. Although this costs a fee, you can get excellent, personalized attention and guidance.
The most important thing is not to be afraid to ask for help. ADHD is not laziness or lack of ability. It is a change in the way the brain functions. When you create a working environment that is compatible with it, you too can be incredibly successful.
Take-Home Message
- Having ADHD in adulthood can be a challenge at work, but it's not the end of your career .
- You can get expert help, such as "vocational rehabilitation," that will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses and help you find the job that best suits you and succeed in it.
- This process is unique to you, tailored to your needs.
- The first step in getting help is to talk openly about this with your doctor. He or she will be able to point you in the right direction.
- With the right support and strategies, you too can have a very fulfilling and successful career with ADHD.
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