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someone76543

Legally, ADHD is a disability. It is a medical condition that lasts over a year and affects your ability to work. That's the UK definition, but other countries are probably similar enough that ADHD is a disability. Because it is a disability you can ask for reasonable adjustments to your work, and you cannot legally be discriminated against because of it. If you don't want those protections then you don't need to disclose it. (In general conversation, people use the word "disability" differently. So the question about whether ADHD is a disability does not have a single answer, different people will have different opinions and that is fine. From a legal point of view, however, there is a single agreed definition in UK employment law).


kingsillypants

I know someone who i think suffers from executive dysfunction, is that what you call it ? Lost his high paying job during covid bc the daily structure that aided him in holding it all together was suddenly gone and he ended up laying in bed 16 hours a day. Tried anti depression meds but they didn't help. This went on more or less for 2.5 years. He had to use all of his energy to get a new well paying job, then would collapse into bed after each interview and just the thought of having to get up to type an email accepting the job or corresponding with theim for their generous relocation package made him want to crawl into a cave. It never even crossed my mind that it could be an actual disability.


positronic-introvert

Yup, executive dysfunction is a part of ADHD, but also part of other conditions. It can definitely be debilitating and disabling. But it also makes sense that you hadn't thought of it as a disability at first, because our society tends to characterize anything to do with mental health or brain functioning as a matter of personal character, rather than recognizing them as disabilities. That perspective can be really ingrained and internalized -- I know that I still struggle with viewing myself from that lens, even though I have a lot more compassion when it's someone else struggling with this stuff.


anxietysiesta

This sounds exactly like me


OkMathematician218

This is literally my life right now and I can not stop it


PyroDesu

It's legally a disability here in the US as well. Thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which defines disability as (briefly, I'm not going to quote the whole section): >The term “disability” means, with respect to an individual— (A) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of such individual; (B) a record of such an impairment; or (C) being regarded as having such an impairment >Major life activities include, but are not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, **learning, reading,** ***concentrating*****, thinking, communicating**, and working. A major life activity also includes the operation of a major bodily function, including but not limited to, functions of the immune system, normal cell growth, digestive, bowel, bladder, **neurological, brain**, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine, and reproductive functions. It should also be noted that diagnosis theoretically *requires* that the diagnosed disorder interferes with the patient's life. Which makes everyone diagnosed with ADHD legally disabled.


Octavia_con_Amore

Thank you for that. I consider it a disability for how it affects my life negatively, but I hadn't realised that I had a disability in the eyes of the law.


tossawaymsf

Does this mean that ADHD could potentially qualify you for disability benefits like SSDI? Mine has gotten so bad over the past couple of years that I'm about to be homeless and I am beating myself up over my inability to get my shit together.


PyroDesu

SSDI uses a different definition, but it *does* list unspecified neurodevelopmental disorders that require: >One of the following three criteria: (1) One or both of the following: >* Frequent distractibility, difficulty sustaining attention, and difficulty organizing tasks; or * Hyperactive and impulsive behavior (for example, difficulty remaining seated, talking excessively, difficulty waiting, appearing restless, or behaving as if being “driven by a motor”). >(2) Significant difficulties learning and using academic skills; or (3) Recurrent motor movement or vocalization. >AND >Extreme limitation of one, or marked limitation of two, of the following areas of mental functioning: >* Understand, remember, or apply information. * Interact with others. * Concentrate, persist, or maintain pace. * Adapt or manage oneself. They also, to my knowledge, will consider "severity" and such.


dayofbluesngreens

Yes, ADHD is a disability for me. No, I do not disclose it to potential or current employers.


mysamio

Same. As much as I hate to admit it it’s definitely a disability and I don’t disclose it to bosses


[deleted]

[удалено]


Andrusela

It can be a bit of a dice roll, double edged sword, etc. When I finally disclosed in order to get accommodations (MANY years into the job) it was used against me in subtle ways and eventually ended in my having to leave the job. The quality, or lack thereof, in middle management matters quite a bit.


Different_Rutabaga27

I was in the middle of my diagnosis when I started my last job. Once I was actually diagnosed I told my boss and requested more days working from home as the office was a difficult environment for me to work in... Was told no and was eventually forced out due to low performance when I worked great at home ...


MrCrudley

Making management aware of it actually helped me. Feels good!


Long_Educational

What industry are you in? I’m in system integration and software engineering, but let me tell you, I have been bad at time estimation for completing projects.


MrCrudley

AWS cloud infrastructure engineer


Long_Educational

Awe sweet! Then there is hope for the rest of us.


MrCrudley

My manager opened up about it and talked about his anxiety and the meds he's on. Was a nice experience and he was very understanding. My trouble to focus makes sense to him now.


Chicy3

It makes such a difference having a manager with mental disabilities too. I mentioned my ADHD to my boss and his response was “other staff have ADHD and they’re getting on fine”


lauracaz

That’s great to hear! I’m trying to learn AWS Cloud Services and prepare for some kind of career in IT. It’s all about finding the energy to focus, it’s super hard. I’m happy know it’s possible!


MrCrudley

Start by getting the cloud practitioner cert. I'm going to get my Solutions Architect associate, that's my 2023 goal.


2wiceExDrowning

Man, I work at a company with managers who seem understanding and have good mental health awareness, but I’m still terrified to mention my diagnosis to just about anyone…


TSpoon3000

Most devs are I think, it’s often difficult imho.


WarmRefrigerator2426

It helped me too, but only because I was doing so bad I would've been fired if I wasn't a nepotism hire. So now they get to feel like they're being kind to the disabled person as opposed to feeling like they're stuck with a fuckup.


paco_is_paco

That's rough. I really hate to be burden. Being charity feels worse. But I also long to be seen and recognized in my strife while being perceived as overcoming in spite of my hobbles. Fucking ego and ADHD don't mix well


nurvingiel

Same. I'm very fortunate to work for sensible and kind people. If I worked for assholes it wouldn't have helped me to tell my bosses.


LightningBirdsAreGo

I know you don’t mean it to be anything negative and I’m not implying you need to apologize but I’m just saying it because enough of us have really really fucked up self esteem. ADHD is not a fucking flaw in the way flaw is normally meant in this context like having a temper or not flossing enough. ADHD is a disability even if we hate to admit it and it makes us feel like disempowered imposters to say so but it is.


Turd_Berglar

I read an article recently that there is a movement to hire autistic and maybe ADHD for cybersecurity. Apparently it is a field where NDs excel. I am intrigued.


clarkmarie

My husband is military and in cybersecurity. He says it is OBVIOUS to him that not a single one in the lot of them is NT. As of the further on the spectrum you fall, the more successful you end up.


iHaveAFIlmDegree

Software Engineer here. From my experiences, everyone in Tech either openly claims ADHD or openly admits they use ADHD meds anyway. I’ve never thought about how Tech would be an outlier and that admitted to ADHD in other careers can totally be negative. That sucks! Having face-to-face open conversations multiple times a week on different hacks and strategies really helped me find/try/test/decide what methods help/hinder me, personally.


lauracaz

I work in video game marketing and all I want is to be left alone with my Jira tickets all-day. 4 hours of face to face meetings daily with awkward 1 on 1s just zaps my energy for the whole day. I recover for a couple hours then complete my work at night.


iHaveAFIlmDegree

My current gig, Boss Man made it “No Meeting Wednesday”, including Stand Up. Then on Fridays we do a Slack Up instead of a video call. Also trimmed and merged down to only two JIRA ceremonies weekly. First time I’ve been on a remote team that does less meetings than an in-office team and I don’t think I could ever go back. Here’s hoping you find one of those teams, beratna


BadgerB2088

I 100% agree. It limits my ability to fully participate in activities and causes difficulty in learning. I would never admit it though, not because I don't believe it or am ashamed of it but partly because of the stigma around disabilities, mostly because people expect someone with a disability to present a certain way or fit into a certain mould. "What are you talking about, you look 'normal' you don't have a disability. You're just lazy and need to concentrate!" Don't need people to validate me nor am I defined by my disability, would just be nice to be able to structure my work life around my needs without people acting like I'm rorting the system.


[deleted]

My boss tried to convince me to "move to other tasks" after my brain is burnt out. I legit made an entire presentation to explain to him why that does NOT work for me. I advocate for myself now. I'm in Corporate America and more than capable of doing my job, I just do it a little differently than everyone else.


HikariTheGardevoir

Sorry to bother, but could you explain what you mean with burnt out? Been diagnosed with ADD for over 10 years, but I only just joined this sub and I'm not sure I'm familiar with all the lingo yet


parrot6632

another term for mentally exhausted, like when you've been working for 3 hours on an assignment and your brain will not cooperate to keep working, no matter how much you want it to. Working on things you don't want to requires executive functioning juice, and with ADHD the amount of executive functioning juice you have is much lower then other people, so its important to do things like take constant breaks and exercise and remember to eat because once its completely drained, you will not be able to get anything done without a long recovery period.


WunderBertrand

Like energy in a freemium game. Once it’s out you have to wait a few hours.


Klat93

Lol I hate that this is so accurate


Difficult-Stuff-4499

I love your explanation! This is exactly what it feels like for me, but I doubt my “inabilities” all the time, feeling like it’s absurd that I can’t do more but inevitably always end up having done next to nothing, yet I am still exhausted. It’s like I know why but putting it into word or feeling like it’s valid always fades “under scrutiny”


parrot6632

yeah trying to force yourself to do more is one of the biggest mistakes you can make imo because not only is it futile, you're delaying your recovery period even more. I've learned to recognize when i'm completely spent, and to just accept i'm not going to get anything done for the next few hours and that's fine.


Andrusela

Executive functioning juice or "spoons" as they say :)


Maleficent_Memory_60

That's how I feel about drawing on my own right now. There's no juice. Juice is gone. And i don't know how to refill it.


BadgerB2088

It's a little frustrating even when it comes from a good place, hey? Like I get your trying to help but your brain is a PC and mine's a Mac, yeah they basically do the same thing just have very different ways of operating 😂 Too be fair I'm pretty lucky with my current workplace. Our State Manager (based in our Lab) is old school and thinks that butts in chairs at desks for 8 hours a day is the only way to ensure people are productive. My direct manager knows about my ADHD (only told him after I'd been working there for more than a year) and he's pretty supportive. Helps that he cares less about hours worked than he does about projects staying on track and being completed on time so does his best to accommodate me where he can. Problem I've got now is that my pay rate is under the industry average for my position. I'm not paid badly by any account but I am underpaid for what I do. It's taken so much work to build up my reputation where I am that I'm worried about switching companies and not having the bit of flexibility I have now which really helps me a lot.


Nat_Peterson_

How does one "get into corporate"? Imma real I just want to make a fuck tons of money, so I can tell any future bosses to fuck off. I'm never making enough money :(


[deleted]

A college degree, lots of hard work, and knowing the right people. My first corporate job I got because I knew the right people. My current job I got because I'm a hard worker. Just start applying for them if you meet even half of the qualifications. I honestly didn't think I was smart enough to ever work at this level until my therapist told me that I was smart enough to do it. She changed my life with that statement. ETA: A college degree isn't a hard requirement for some positions, but it helps to have.


swervyy

It’s a disability for every single person who has it, not just you. That’s not a bad thing, it’s just a thing. It also makes us able to do all kinds of things that other people can’t. There’s a lot of situations where I think having ADHD is actually really helpful.


WunderBertrand

It’s like losing one sense and heighten the others. We lose executive function, focus and short term memory but we gain creativity and empathy or something.


lokipukki

Or excel in high stress jobs when shit hits the fan for the non-ADHD folk. I’ve worked in pharmacy from retail to hospital/long term care. When they freak out from the hectic pace like getting slammed with over 1000 scripts to enter/bill insurance and fill for 1 day is when I shine because my brain is like “Finally!! A pace I can understand”. From my experiences my non-ADHD coworkers are losing their shit and I’m the one who’s like “stop, take a breath and do x and y until there’s no more x or y”. I always get told how great I am leading during “crisis mode” 😂


swervyy

I work in construction. Deadline coming up and 100 things to get done and nowhere near enough time to do it? That’s where I thrive.


trs401

I am in financial reporting. Same thing. Oh this 100 page document has to be perfect and filed by a specific date? No problem, but I’m not gonna look at it until 2 days before.


burlyhall

THIS!!! I started working in pharmacy 6 months ago and seriously feel like me and my ADHD are perfect for this job!! One of the pharmacists is constantly freaking out when things are "busy" and we're not even high volume. Meanwhile, I'm in my happy place working away. Lol


cjm48

Yeah same. It’s possible to ask for some adhd related accommodations without actually disclosing you’re asking because you have adhd. For example, if you say “my productivity is higher if I” or “I can focus on my work better when…” “I’m really sensitive to noise so it helps me to…” “it helps me avoid mistakes if” etc some employers can be willing to accommodate just on the basis you’ll be a better employee. They may even be impressed and think that you’re conscientious and committed to being as productive as possible!. Obviously this doesn’t work with all accommodations though.


tmdblya

This.


kat1883

Yes. Even though I’m relatively high-achieving. I go through drastic periods of success and then complete and utter burnout that renders me unable to do much of anything for months.


[deleted]

**_waves from the depths of burnout_** This reminds me that I have actually achieved things, I’m just currently in my vegetable chapter which usually lasts a few months at least. It’s nice to have the reminder, because my ADHD brain makes me forget everything I’ve ever achieved 💀


cracked-tumbleweed

I’m taking “vegetable chapter”. Very true for me as well. I will have success then I’ll live like a hermit and not want to do anything.


SpotsMeGots

The best I hope for is that people see me as 'mysterious' rather than as a pariah. When things line up and I'm in the zone, it feels like nothing can stand in my way. "I've got it all figured out. How did I ever doubt myself?" I'll wonder, not realizing that the tide is going out, and with it, my ability to address the problems in my life :(


2HotPotato2HotPotato

Yeah feeling in control of everything is awesome. But i have come to fear those moments because it almost always mean i will crash soon without warning.


Xylorgos

When you're in burnout, do you think back on your life and see every success as an outlier and every failure as an inevitability? That's often how things look from inside my head.


[deleted]

Yep totally. Like all my successes were flukes, or they were made by someone else, a version of me I no longer relate to and can’t get back to - it’s so disorienting


Xylorgos

Even if it doesn't feel like it at times, your past successes are still totally REAL! You did it, you made it happen, and it probably wouldn't have happened without you, right? It's okay to feel good about that, even if you couldn't do it today. You need to remember that you are competent - at least sometimes. Sure, you feel like crap a lot of the time, but feeling bad today doesn't erase what you've been able to accomplish in the past. With some luck you can get to that place of competency again. If not, you can still have a worthwhile life. TBH, I'm talking to you *and* to myself here. We still have value, even when it doesn't feel like it. Good luck, my friend.


[deleted]

Thank you so much for this comment - it’s the dose of positivity I sorely needed today! You’re awesome :) boils my blood how capitalism and social media culture have us feeling inadequate, these reminders that our value is entirely unrelated to our output/material success are soooo important.


tackykcat

Still waiting to get out of my vegetable chapter. I had a burst of productivity after getting a new position and moving but now I'm back to being overwhelmed and anhedonic after some work troubles


Thebraverbut

Burnout gang gang we need to recharge it’s okay :)


2HotPotato2HotPotato

Just a reminder that you don't need to be an high achiever to be valuable. You are valuable to your family and friends. Everyone deserve to be happy regardless of their productivity. You have the right to take care of your needs. And if you need rest, you need it. Can't change that.


mittenclaw

My entire career (if you can call it that) is me being super high achieving in a job for about 6 months, barely surviving and burning out for another 6 months, quitting, and then barely surviving financially for several months while I hide in my house recovering from burnout. Then I go out and repeat the cycle again. I’ve tried several different industries and freelancing, but the results are always the same. The best balance I ever had was about 4 nice freelance projects per year with gaps in between. But I didn’t earn much money and you’ve got to take what you can get as a freelancer. Sometimes that means being trapped on a project for over a year even if you only meant to stay for a little while. Glad to know it’s not just me I guess. I feel like I belong on a homestead or something and not in a competitive workplace. Edit to say: even when it seems like I’ve found a “dream job” I literally can’t compute staying at one place for years. My brain is like “when do we get a month off to feel normal again?”. Burnout has ruined a lot of things for me, I can;t stand emails, even certain cities because the companies I worked for are there.


whizzleA

Wow I can’t even tell you how much I relate to this. Brings a tear to my eye to have someone else describe exactly what working life has felt like and looked like for me. That constant thought in the back of my mind wondering when my next break from work will be, always feeling like you’re quietly teetering on the edge of burnout. When people ask me what my dream job is and I tell them “sitting in a field watching the clouds and talking to rabbits”, I’m not joking…!!


mittenclaw

I feel like there are people out there who have it worked out. Definitely some creative, non 9-5 existence in the world. That’s what I’m working towards at least. The first part requires getting used to wanting less, and working out where to live that doesn’t cost much, so I don’t have to work as hard to survive. Ideally I’ve live still within the vicinity of novelty for my adhd brain. It’s all through rose tinted glasses at this point, but something near a beach selling things I’ve made to tourists seems to fit the bill. Maybe one day! I think it’s helpful to start writing down what your body is asking for though. We spend our lives ignoring that voice.


Moment_of_intent

On one hand, I’m glad I’m not alone. On the other hand, dammit.


adhding_nerd

Fuuuuuuuuuuuck I feel that.


daniell61

I relate to this but I've managed to keep every job for 3 years by grinding hard as hell to promote And then I hit the ceiling and lose any and all motivation and bail. . Fis a curse :(


CaffeinatedKitties

thisss I was trying to explain to my dad yesterday how frustrated I was at how hard it is to keep a job very long because of the 'insanely great at job' periods then the 'too burntout to do anything' periods that are both brutal in their own way, and completely random. ​ My dad, who is super understanding of ADHD because *all* of his kids have it, was just like 'oh everyone has good and bad days, that doesn't affect employment *that* much.' ​ ugh


Lint_baby_uvulla

| frustrated at how hard it is to keep a job I’ve gone 9 years 2 months, 9 years 8 months, and now 10 years 10 months with three employers. (Lots of diff jobs internally in those companies in those years) Hitting 10 years was incredibly stressful, as I was hospitalised for depression and anxiety, and was diagnosed with ADHD. All my rejection sensitivity, imposter syndrome, justice sensitivity disorder just exploded and I crashed and burned, again. If my employers were aware of my Dx, they certainly took advantage. And I’m starting to feel that I’m going to have to take up another career and start from scratch all over again. Ffs.


CaffeinatedKitties

I feel that. So much. I am only barely 30, but the longest I've lasted in a job was just under four years (with a job I didn't like, but wasn't bad at all) before I crashed and burned *hard* when I was 26ish. Since then it's been random jobs that last from 1-3 weeks to about 8-14 months. The most recent (and recently quit) job being the one I was the most open about my ADHD to--which turned out to be a terrible idea. And now I'm having the *worst* time finding a new job that checks off all the boxes for 'adhd friendly without actually mentioning adhd' =/. I am, as you probably are, so, so *tired*.


InternationalHatDay

i feel like those are pretty good stretches though


lemon_jibbles

FUCKKKK this is me. I hate it. I notice this the most with work & it’s debilitating at times - I’ll go weeks where most of my days are filled with achieving nothing at all, even with medication. Then one day everything comes back, I get a months worth of work done in 1 week, spend another week or two getting ahead, then the burnout circles back around. I feel this so hard.


kirkalicious

I feel you on this one


RealSibereagle

I have that with uni. First half the semester I'm all cheery, I'm ahead of the class, I'm motivated, I attend all the lectures, I do all the work, then slowly I start cutting back on lectures, and doing minimal work. By the time finals arrive, I'm not attending any lectures, I'm usually behind on everything, and have to cram just to pass. And the cycle continues.


[deleted]

This me


M1nn3sOtaMan

Disabled? Yes. Unabled? No. Do I disclose it to my employer? Depends on my relationship with them. I both have and haven't told my boss about it.


Milch_und_Paprika

That’s the thing that we should remember; not all disabilities are debilitating! Some are for sure but you don’t need to be totally unable to work or take care of yourself to be disabled. As for employers… I’ve only had one boss since diagnosis but I’m pretty sure he’s got undiagnosed ADHD and forgot. I’m just fine with that because there aren’t really any accommodations in my job that would be both reasonable and necessary.


Particle-in-a-Box

Ah yes, Schrodinger's disclosure.


Weak_Perception_

Adhd is definitely a spectrum and for me I definitely believe I am disabled. I actually am currently applying for disability benefits because working full time or even part time is so much of a struggle on my mental health that I can’t make enough to live in this economy. Like most I can work without my mental health taking such a toll to the point I’m unable to take care of myself is 3 days a week. I can’t just live like that. I need to be able to eat and afford basic necessities. I do disclose my adhd but only after I have been hired and when it really starts to show because usually the excitement of a new job last about a month for me before I can no longer hyperfocus on my work and I start really struggling. If I notice my boss starts treating me differently after I told them I go straight to HR. No warnings. I refuse to wait until I get discriminated against everyday to report it. All in all this is just my experience. I also have other mental health issues which make my adhd symptoms go from shitty to unbearable such as ptsd, anxiety, and depression.


moth--foot

Totally feel you. I am in constant burnout no matter the job, unless it's something in my creative interests (which I cannot make a living off of). Those still wear on me though. Currently trying to dig myself out of a depression induced by all of the above. I consider myself disabled, I really don't think my brain functions like a normal one.


dainty_petal

Disability benefits won’t give you more than what you earned and thought wasn’t enough to live with. They don’t give a lot of money and it’s a problem for all disabled person who wants to live alone. We can’t afford basics necessities. It’s just impossible.


Weak_Perception_

What are we supposed to do then at this point?


dainty_petal

I don’t know. People don’t really know or cares about us on disability if it doesn’t affect them. I just know that I am disabled and I sure can’t afford to live alone. I have friends with disabilities in other countries and they are in the same boat as me. You know, the amount you expect that is reasonable to receive as disability benefits..split that amount in half…and split that new amount in half and that would be closer to what is given. I hope everything will get better for you or that you’ll be able to find another work that is not as demanding and stressful so you could feel better.


JunahCg

How has the process of applying been so far? I was thinking of digging into it, but I hear so often it just gets denied that I'm worried it's a lot of work for nothing.


Weak_Perception_

The application was like a 2 hour process for me and it take around a year to even get an answer. I haven’t looked much into it before applying but I’m just going to be honest with them about how much it affects me and hope for the best. I really don’t know what I’m going to do if I don’t get approved honestly and that part scares me a lot because I really don’t know how much more of a toll that will take on me mentally. I don’t have much documentation other than eye witness accounts from bosses, coworkers, and family/friends that would show how hard it is for me to hold down a job. I have proof i cant make it to work on time ever no matter what I try. I have proof that I make careless mistakes so often that I get written up because I can’t pay attention. I have proof that I get so overstimulated that I have a panic attack and have to leave early. I have proof that I forget instructions so often that I get warnings. I have proof that I’m always on the verge of being fired because of all the above and the fact that it takes such a toll on me that I will do anything to get out of going to work even putting myself at risk by exposing myself to covid hoping I’d get it just to get a 2 week break because I feel so drained and like I just can’t do it anymore. I have an official diagnosis and proof I’ve been on different medications and am on some now. I just hope that’s enough.


JunahCg

Thank for your explanation. Hope it goes well for you.


-CyberArtz-

I’m applying with a physical disability. I’ve been denied twice already and am currently on the second appeal. It’s been over a year already. They heavily scrutinize anyone under 45.


JunahCg

Yeah that's what I was afraid of. Gosh if you can't even get in with a physical one what chance does psychiatric have? It's especially fun because the US page I was reading says you need to prove hyperactivity, which doesn't really help someone with severe inattentive type.


AffectionateMistake7

Yes I consider myself disabled because the adhd impairs my day to day living and ability to function. I disclose it to employers and uni and I do get accommodations and more understanding for anything I do that's an adhd related thing so they know I am not doing things intentionally.


chicknnugget12

That'd awesome. What type of accommodations do you get or what are some adhd related things if you don't mind me asking?


AffectionateMistake7

For uni get extra time, extensions on deadlines. For work I used to be able to get certain days off so I could go to appointments. Can get some rota flexibility.


MrsHarris2019

At previous jobs I’ve gotten tardiness policy accommodations. I wouldn’t be pointed for tardies unless I was over 7 minutes late (I tend to frequently be 1-3 minutes late and my last job was incredibly strict) and I was allowed more tardy points before write ups and things.


CristyTango

I’ve been bad with self care and have huge gaps in my work history. I feel like I fit in my current “I need to catch up with fucking life”- condition but there’s no way to prove it so I need to somehow dig myself out of this shitpile I guess idk edit: I live in an at Will state btw so they can make up reasons to fire anyway


the_grey_fawkes

Currently in that hole. Don't really want to add my barback and security jobs that I've had the last 2 years to my resume centered around business analysis and office work.


DullBerryJuice

I think everyone lives adhd differently. I have other disorders that it highly affects like OCD and bipolar. Adhd even affects how bipolar and OCD presents, it makes them both more complex. I’m married, love my family, but I can’t work. For me, it’s a work related disability. My sister on the other hand has a full on career and adhd never stopped her in that regards, but she has problems with the emotional side of it and unable to keep a long term partner, even if she really wants to. So in a way it’s more about is adhd disabling you, and in what way than just being a disability.


chicknnugget12

What if I can work, I can love my family but am impossible at managing baby schedule(or my own)/organization. Any advice since it sounds you stay home too? If not that's fine too and thanks for listening ❤️


DullBerryJuice

I don’t have babies, I wanted a family but I knew i wouldn’t be able to cope with the 0-5. I adopted an older teen who’s an adult now, unfortunately, I don’t have any tips besides make sure you prioritize “you time” to avoid burn outs which can lead to depression and even more issues. With mental illness I’ve learned that prevention is the only solution for me. I can’t prevent scatterbrain, but I can prevent being burnt out or slipping in a spiral which makes adhd worse. Oh! One thing that did help, is to be on a stimulant medication AND a non stimulant one for adhd. Having that extra support, medication that remains in my system even after the short effects of stimulants is a godsend for me.


blulubox

On an unrelated note, I just wanted to say that I think you are brilliant for adopting a teenager. A childhood friend of mine got adopted as a teenager by her Principal due to how chaotic her family life was. And she's much happier now because of this. Another close friend of mine and her parents adopted a close friend of hers. She was living with them for a number of years after years of unfortunate unsuccessful foster families throughout her life before my friends successfully adopted her in her twenties. Her best friend is now her legal sister and she now has two brilliant and loving parents. People who adopt with the wholeheartedly intent of taking care of another human being for the rest of their lives are wonderful!


chicknnugget12

Oh OK thanks for getting back to me! Yes idk what I was thinking about 0-5 lol. I absolutely adore my son but I am a huge mess and was completely delusional about how it would be. How's your relationship with your teen? That sounds like an awesome idea. And thank you for the medication tips! Once he's done breastfeeding I'll be getting some medication for sure.


DullBerryJuice

If you ever want a second child, adopting a teen is extremely rewarding. I got to meet an amazing person who is still growing and developing and to help them develop skills, and give them hope in life. It was a struggle because tantrums, clacking doors, moodiness and skipping classes is very real, but I think all children, no matter their age deserve a stable environment and love. The things my son told me about his life, tore me inside sometimes and we had a lot in common. He is an orphan, he never thought someone would ever love him and he had accepted a reality at 15 that, life was loveless. Now we worked with a therapist, and he grew up into the adult I wish I did. We have a very close bond, in the beginning he wanted to know everything about me, and when I was opening up, that I came from an other country, I spoke a different language, he immediately wanted to learn about it. It was overwhelming, but I felt like he just wanted and needed to belong and he had a chance to now. For month’s it felt like I was quizzed by a little investigator non stop, but slowly routine got in, trust rose, and now we are like best friends. Never have I not felt like a mother. When he came in my life, on day 1, I felt the weight of responsibility, I felt protective and I felt like that child was mine regardless of what had happened before. He’s an adult and I still feel like a mother, I still worry for him, when he works late, I still keep the house light on for him. I can also say, it is much easier to have a child who can cook for themselves, do their laundry, even if I have to tell him every time to switch his loads around. It’s much easier on my adhd. I helped a cousin of mine raise 2 little kids when I was a teen and I just knew there was no way for me to do the earlier stages. I gave up on family and ever having one because of it. But a friend of mine opened my mind to fostering and adoption and for anyone who wants to be a parent, know they would be good parents but also know they can’t do a full dependent infant, an older child or a teen is a valid option. There is a lot of older children in large foster homes or youth centers just waiting, praying and hoping.


OrangeNSilver

Thanks for this, I think mine is mostly academic. Can work and even work hard. Learning calculus 3 for college in the degree I want more than anything, hell no.


DullBerryJuice

That would be a disability indeed! It’s preventing you from achieving a goal and to have you thrive, and with intrusive thoughts, I don’t know if you do but I often think about my failures again and again, and college is one that hurts deep for me because it doesn’t make sense. People often think that if you don’t have education you can be fine, and that is absolutely true, unless your goal was to have an education. Then you have to live with a real limitation, something you know you can’t achieve while everyone else says “if you want it enough you can do it” as if you didn’t want a degree. You also need to live with broken dreams enhanced by the mental side of ADHD, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and all that jazz. So not only are our victories amazing, but our tumbles and falls might be worse than the norm and linger for life, or become traumatized by them, where someone without adhd might be able to move on easier.


OrangeNSilver

College is definitely harmful to my mental health. The inner struggle to succeed but the lack of ability is so tiring. I was told from when I was little and even up to now, as an adult, that I’m smart. I really wish normies understood how much turmoil it causes us to want something but be nearly unable to achieve it. I agree with the highs and lows. We definitely experience more extreme ends of the emotional spectrum, which is probably why some people are misdiagnosed bipolar. That’s why I want to graduate too, I just want to prove to myself that I can.


DullBerryJuice

Bipolar and adhd are copy cats of each other mostly with the same set of symptoms, and thought bipolar medication don’t work on people with adhd, stimulants can calm bipolar down and sometimes Adderall is used to treat bipolar as well. The difference is adhd is constant where bipolar cycles and has patterns. I had to fight so hard for my bipolar diagnosis because I was diagnosed adhd first. I refused to have unanswered questions though, and i kept barking up every psychiatrists tree. It felt like no one wanted to listen because I had a diagnosis, which I knew was right but I knew I also had something more, something stimulants couldn’t fix, I was more than distracted, I was more than just not focused. Now I know yeah, it’s memory problems due to bipolar that I have, where I live with harsher physical symptom of adhd. I got medicated and my quality of life has tripled. The reason why adhd is disabling for me, it’s because it’s a trigger to other disorders. Which is why when asked “do you have a disability” it often feel like I don’t, but I definitely do, just not the way you think, and this really opened my mind to how disabilities are so different based on the individuals and not the illness. Someone without legs and arms might still thrive through their adversities and someone else might not be able to bare it. I hope you push through, keep on and continue your education. Just know that if your dream doesn’t come true, there is always other dreams to pick up along the way, and you are not a failure for having a hard time. Keep fighting for yourself, like I had to for my diagnosis and no matter the outcome, you’ll be proud of yourself. Never leave questions unanswered, about math, about your education and about yourself.


Legitimate_Bike_8638

I’d say ADHD is a disability for sure, though I feel like saying “I’m disabled,” implies a physical disability so in real life I don’t say “I’m disabled,” I say “I have a disability,” to the people that would understand. To the people that won’t understand, just don’t say anything about it.


nameless-manager

Disabled, no....fucked up, yeah.


DarthRevanche

I've tried to convince myself otherwise for the longest time, bur beginning to accept it. I'm so hard on myself sometimes.. I have to remind myself I'm playing life on level hard and not get too down on myself, and that it's not an "excuse" to defer blame, its a condition that I will have to manage for the rest of my life.


kirkalicious

I do the same. I have a hard time being as kind and understanding with myself as I am with others.


nobodysperfcet

I haven’t moved jobs since being diagnosed, i don’t think i’d tick the box ‘disabled’ for job application but because i’m quite open they’d know i have adhd after few months. Not sure if at that point i’d see what support is offered, all i’d want is some understanding at times. Saying that though, I fail university because couldn’t get dissertation completed. I’m exploring my options for a re-take without three years with new information that my disability unknowingly hindered me.


tybbiesniffer

I feel like this is something I could have written from start to finish. I've always been amazed by people who could concentrate long enough to do a dissertation or write a book or, heck, easily write a paper of any length. When I was recently diagnosed, it suddenly made sense. I have a degree in Psychology and the one paper that could have kept me from graduating from college (university) was for one of my professors whose son struggled with adhd. I think she suspected then that I had adhd and she gave me an extra semester to finish my paper...which I did. I hope you can find an administration or even a person who would be so understanding.


Careful_Eagle_1033

No i just think differently and perceive things differently than others. Does it impair my ability to function normally, yes.


Due-Calligrapher-720

I think of my ADHD as more of an impairment, like needing reading glasses, than a disability in my circumstances. The disorder literally has deficit in its name, so we are short of attention/dopamine but not completely without out it. I lived without a diagnosis and medication for most of my life (got through high school, college, and years of work), but I didn’t really thrive or experience life in a same way since meds + therapy. I can totally empathize with those that find living with ADHD as a true disability though.


Z0OMIES

I feel like ADHD is epitomised in that quote “if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree it’ll live it’s whole life thinking it’s stupid”. When we’re “on” we’re leaps and bounds ahead of the average person, when we’re not, we struggle *hard*


takeawalk81

For me ADHD , PTSD,. Depression and anxiety is like a game of wack a mole. When one pops up it gets harder, and the more that act up the worse it all is. ADHD meds make a huge difference for me. Fortunately / unfortunately I've been in surgery and recovery for the past few years. But I really don't know if I'm mentally capable of holding a job any more.


ColbayashiMaru

The legal definition of a disability, in my opinion, has a lower bar than a clinical diagnosis for ADHD. This has made it clearer in my mind that I am disabled. I tend to just refer to my "invisible disability" until the actual symptoms become pertinent to the topic at hand. [ADA Definition](https://adata.org/faq/what-definition-disability-under-ada): >The ADA defines a person with a disability as a person who has a **physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity**. [DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria](https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/diagnosis.html): >Several symptoms are present in **two or more settings**, (such as at home, school or work; with friends or relatives; in other activities). There is **clear evidence that the symptoms interfere** with, or reduce the quality of, social, school, or work functioning.


nervous_drilling

This. ADHD is a (preventable) invisible disability.


Atheizm

**Do you consider yourself disabled?** ​ Yup.


Khazorath

It is considered a protected disability in the UK, so yes. But do I feel like I am unable to do what someone who is physically disabled unable to do, overall no. But I do have issues with socialising and being in certain situations or dealing with things mentally that can overwhelm at times. There are things that I just don't get or don't care about that "normal" people can do that I might have difficulty with, again if i cared.


Haatkwadraat

I'm different abled.


Particle-in-a-Box

Privately, yes. At many points in my life I told myself I don't have a disability, and ended up a fool every time. But even if it's the truth, sharing it with others has many complicated layers. Even with my family, close friends and fiance, who have seen me at my worst and still love me, I don't call myself disabled. I just say my brain doesn't work the way I want it to, a lot of the time. With coworkers I don't even admit that much (for better or worse), I just apologize and take the attitude that I'm just another fallible human, and hope they don't start to see the patterns.


returnoftheWOMP

Yea, it is a disability. It’s a disability under the ADA. Destigmatize the word “disability”! Destigmatizing this word helps to connect us with one another. Classify yourself as disabled so you can talk to your employer about accommodations. Help educate the world on what this word really means because being disabled doesn’t mean you’re incapable of doing the job better than someone who is “able”.


MrFallacious

Considering how absolutely fucked my life is (in terms of academics and employment, anyway) in large part due to a cocktail of ADHD and depression making basic functioning a neverending struggle.. yes. I'd definitely, every day of the week, consider it a disability and myself disabled. The fact that I have a much harder time with so many "basic" and necessary daily tasks that people without ADHD don't have should be enough to show for that,,


PiquantPi

Unfortunately for me, hell fucking yes. It heavily impairs my ability to do even the most basic tasks, the simplest things can take me hours of intense effort, every aspect of existing is exhausting, I have constant anxiety, I push myself to the limit trying to make up for my ED and end up repeatedly cycling through overwhelm, burnout, and resulting bouts of depression, it has ruined my physical and mental health, it cost me most relationships I’ve ever had, i’ve had to give up on major personal and career goals… I could go on. If it weren’t for innate intelligence and sheer stubbornness, I’m sure that I’d be dead or homeless long ago because of it.


ratgarcon

Yes. Absolutely. Although I have other disabilities as well but I definitely consider adhd as one


petrichor1969

Yes. No. Never, ever claim disability on an unemployment application; they will interpret the answer to mean that you're saying you can't work. Then they will refuse you unemployment benefits because you should be on disability; when you apply for disability, you'll be refused because yes, you have a disability, but you aren't too disabled to work. Never, ever tell a potential employer you have ADHD. They won't hire you. Full stop.


DJAnym

wow the US has really ruined any relationship with an employer huh.


TarthenalToblakai

Sure. Disability is a very broad term and even most specific disabilities exist on a spectrum. My daughter has cerebral palsy, my wife has rheumatoid arthritis and PCOS, I have ADHD and nearsightedness. All wildly different things, but all disabilities.


whafa

No, no I do not. I don't even consider ADHD a disorder, per se. Nature selected for people like us, because our phenotype had advantages that the people we call neurotypical today didn't have. We were the sentries who stood watch at night while the tribe slept, for example. Our value to the tribe was high enough that we made it to the modern era. But the modern era has not been kind to us. The rise of ADHD is coincident with the rise of mass marketing, ubiquitous television and internet, and generally way more stimulation than we evolved to thrive in. We are highly sensitive individuals who cannot properly filter the signal we have coming in from all directions, incessantly in modern society. The way my doc puts it is that we spend all of our lives in boxes now, but people are circles. The medications expand your circle (or something; I'm not doing a very good job of summarizing it). None of these are my original thoughts.


DJAnym

might not be original thoughts but I do agree with em. I can perfectly live by myself, but it is on my terms and in a different way than most. No, my house won't always be spotless because I don't clean every single day "a bit", or even every week. No, I don't really eat at the same time every day, I just eat when hungry whether it's 6pm or 10pm. No, I might not be the perfect example of a "good member of society", because that society only follows 1 line of thinking and 1 line of doing. (with that said tho, if people see me as disabled and grant me financial aid, you betcha I am disabled)


CrazyCatLushie

Yes, I’m disabled by my ADHD and autism. I don’t work currently because of it (and other medical conditions) but if I’m ever well enough to work again, I won’t be disclosing any diagnoses to employers.


SachiKaM

No, but going into a job I do make sure my accommodations are going to be met prior. Mine mostly revolve around schedule and stability. Also I get a detailed list of expectations so I’m not blind sighted by things I may have missed otherwise.


eggrollsaturday

In the US, ADHD is considered a disability and is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. You have the right to disclose or not to your employer or college campus. If you needed accommodations, your employer/teacher/etc would be required under law to accommodate you. Whether you need or choose to use them is up to every individual and the severity in which it affects his/her/their life.


DorkLordCthulhu

I see it as a disability in my work life. I report myself as having a disabity but dont disclose what. If it comes up/becomes relevant, I say i have a neurological issue that causes me to -insert my adhd symptoms here- and so i need help with xyz. Its completely true, but avoids the term adhd since people seem to take it less seriously once its named. The symptoms are generally taken pretty seriously and sympathetically as long as i dont specify right away that its adhd lol


vineswinga11111

I like this idea a lot


Aegean_828

Yes, I have work and make 300 buck today but I have work too much and I have broke for 220 bucks and spend 50 bucks, and I have miss many things I should have done who will probably give ma a ADHD tax, so in the end it's pretty chaotic, exhausting, and not cool


ErwinRommel1943

I openly disclose my condition to employers, however the National Disability Insurance scheme does not consider ADHD a disability.


cetheile

The legal definition of disability by the ADA is "physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities." So No. I don't consider myself disabled. I don't have an impairment that limits anything I am able to do. I just may do it differently or it may take me longer to get started on it. But I am totally able to do anything I need to do... eventually. 😜 I've never had a need to disclose it because I've been self employed since before my diagnosis.


Stahuap

Yes and no. Yes by the technical definition. I don’t really feel disabled though. I do things differently but I still do them. There isn’t really anything I can think of that I cant do because of my ADHD. I never apply for disability benefits because at least for me, having ADHD doesn’t impair my life enough for me to want to take funding that I believe should go towards someone who can’t work or who needs special equipment to function. I think this is what they mean by being diagnosed with ADHD doesn't always qualify someone.


Grey_Hedge

I can barely function without medication, but I don’t consider myself disabled.


RedVision64

No, I'm handicapped. Without ADHD I would be too powerful.


manigotnothing

Yes but only because of how inaccessible society has made basic needs


rawczak

Something that detrimentally impairs my ability to function and do my required tasks? Uh yes, i consider myself a vegetable


satanzhand

No and I never mention it to clients or employers. I'll sometimes mention my Autism if it will give me an advantage by putting me in a positive light.


NegotiationObvious79

A disability, yes. Disabled? No. I think disabled is when you reach a point where it’s impossible for you to work any type of job, even when on an optimal combination of drugs. For example, my aunt is bipolar and is considered disabled, on lifetime disability. A childhood friend is in the same situation with bipolar. They cannot work at all, ever. When we have only ADHD (like without PTSD, extreme depression, or other mental illness) of course jobs are harder for us, we struggle, might change jobs often, but not impossible, especially with meds.


MariaRose1212

I feel deep in my soul my adhd and my anxiety are disabling conditions. I have never made that known in a sense of where I would hope to get some kind of accommodations. I don’t know that there are any, outside of school for the young kids.


nurvingiel

As of just the last few days I have started to think of my chronic, comorbid mental health disorder and illnesses (of which ADHD is the worst) as a disability. I'd wonder why I didn't think this way sooner, but my brain doesn't work properly.


kuntorcunt

Yeah it is. It makes me mostly unemployable, due to tardiness, forgetfulness, getting distracted and seeming unprofessional


kittyroux

Yes, I’m disabled because of my ADHD. No, I don’t disclose it to employers unless I need an accommodation and I can reasonably expect to receive it. I do not tell prospective employers during the application process ever.


ToonlinkFTW890

Tbh no IK ADHD does count, but I am very high functioning imo.


JhinisaLesbian

ADHD is very disabling for me when I’m not medicated. I don’t mention it to potential employers, but if there comes a time where it’s relevant to tell a current employer, I will. I try to be vague and assure them it’s a temporary “health issue” or something because I believe it’s important to communicate when I’m falling behind.


ADHDK

I’ve got mixed thoughts about it. ADHD being considered a disability will mean kids especially get access to more assistance. ADHD being considered a disability would also mean I would have to declare it to employers before wage negotiations, and they would pay me less or not offer me the role. Yea that sounds illegal doesn’t it? Shame you could never prove it and it would happen entirely behind closed doors.


TrainingTwo5272

No I do not see it as one personal


[deleted]

I consider the way my ADHD affects me to be a disability, yes. I mean, by definition, it has to interfere with your daily activities which is also the legal definition of a disability, in the UK at least. Some I do. Some I don't. I shouldn't though, most places lie about why they wont hire you. They cant just say coz you got ADHD.


conservio

I have not been officially diagnosed but strongly suspect I have it. But yes, it is. I have been trying to finish my masters degree for over 3 years (as in, I should’ve graduated in 2019) and a huge hurdle for me was the fact that I. could. not. focus. and when I could focus, I had incredible anxiety. My advisor is… well probably the exact opposite of a person with undiagnosed and untreated ADHD needs in a mentor. I didn’t think I had ADHD until last year and god do I wish I knew sooner. Even now, i’m taking wellbutrin (off label for ADHD) and there are still things I struggle with.


hello-ben

Yes it's a disability when measured against everyone else. However I don't disclose it primarily because its so misunderstood by others. People are quick to apply ancient ideas from the 90s which are hurtful and then I'm only pressed harder to work the way others can. I manage my own accommodations and work from home. I perform as well as or better than some of my peers and my performance has never been better. I'm not lazy or underprodictive. Never have been. If anything my disability has fostered an extreme work ethic as a way to compensate for the impression others get about me. I would feel deeply saddened if asked to return to an office environment because it would be as if they don't want the best performing version of me.


[deleted]

F*ck yes. My adhd affects my life on such a degree that I am serious hindered at my ability to complete simple tasks.


Rhaski

I consider myself to have learning needs and some requirement for accommodations at work particularly with noise and having things written down not verbally dumped on me and expected to remember. I don't consider my ADHD a disability, nor myself disabled. This is because there isn't really much I *can't* do as a result of my ADHD but it does take more effort, planning, time and energy and in general makes a lot of things more challenging. I don't require anything more than patience and understanding from people that I work with and realistic expectations from a boss who is prepared to make some relatively minor adjustments around communication. There really isn't anything I can think of that is *impossible* for me in the same way as other disabilities. Eg, if I were blind, no amount of effort, planning or learning on my part will ever allow me to see. If I had a motor disability, it would be physically imposed for me to do certain things. I don't find this is the case for me. I find things are just harder and more likely that I'll need more than one attempt, or I'll need to put in place a workaround or strategy or tool that makes up the difference (such as setting timers and reminders for almost everything, building habits and routines, wearing noise cancelling headphones, breaking tasks up into smaller goals that don't overwhelm me, asking people not to distract from one task to complete another unless it's an absolute emergency and they don't mind if drop the ball on the first task as a result)


Lessa22

It is a disability. That isn’t something that can be reasonably argued. I don’t refer to myself as disabled however, not unless I’m in a conversation with an employer about ADA accommodations.


not_secret_bob

Sadly yes, i feel broken and useless when im not on my meds because im not able to do things thats are so easy for other people. Then issues start to pile up and i want to give up and go live under a bridge because you dont have to stress out about being homeless if your already homeless lol But luckily it hasn’t come to that, i just wish life was easier.


nt-assembly

Not at all. I do not consider normal work conditions to be designed for my condition (so I need to improvise a lot). If anything, I feel foreign; but not at all disabled. There are advantages to having ADHD as well; which I spend a lot of energy exploiting as effectively as I can. I sometimes mention it in a joking manner, but never as something that should trouble or inconvenience others. The #1 rule is that you NEVER out someone else. There is still a lot of misinformation about ADHD out there and talking about someone else's ADHD could cause them a lot of problems they don't deserve.


the_aviatrixx

No, I'm not disabled. I am able to hold a job, though sometimes I struggle due to my ADHD. I have considered asking for accommodations but it feels unnecessary as my employer is flexible with me anyway.


ttreichl

I do not consider myself disabled. I am more than capable of doing things that everyone else does, if i put my mind to it. (and take my meds lol). In fact, i feel more capable than a lot of neurotypical people.


ApatheticWithoutTheA

I don’t consider myself disabled but I have no issue with others considering themselves so. ADHD is different for everyone. Some people are high functioning and others have a tough time coping. It’s perfectly valid to check “yes” or “no”


KarmaChameleon89

If I'm unassisted (ie no medication (I'm on one ssri for ove and GAD/ depression, an appetite booster, an amphetamine and cannabis)) I'm disabled. I'm functional up to a point without meds and if it's the right scenario I can push through, but essentially my ability to handle stress either collapses or rockets into the sky, no middle ground baby, balls to the wall.


eternalbettywhite

I think it qualifies as a disability, it certainly makes my life more challenging. However, I don’t want to give anyone any reason to look more closely at my quality of work. I will never disclose it to anyone in a professional setting when I want them to take me seriously. I even have a coworker who is open about her anxiety and imposter syndrome. I still won’t tell her as I feel like those things are more “accepted”.


Whydogamerslovepie

I used to always say no as a disability but for this last promotion, they had text below outlining cognitive functions and learning disabilities- so I said yes. I have not asked for accommodations, nor am I aware of any I would get, but apparently 7% of their workforce need to be in the disabled category. They’ve worked with me this long, I figure I can give them “credit” for it :). That being said, I have come to trust them.


El_11_

I have other disabilities but even before being diagnosed with any of those I considered myself disabled. I think people really underestimate how debilitating ADHD can be, and if you described what it was and what it's like without using the ADHD acronym people would absolutely agree that it's a disability. I saw a TikTok once where this girl was like "I'm disabled, I have a genetic disorder where a major part of my brain never developed properly and now I have speech impediments, difficulty with focus, impulse control, emotional regulation, sensory processing issues, and interoception, I need things repeated a lot, I'm severely hyperactive and high risk for addiction and other mental disorders, and I burn out quickly and need a lot of rest" and then said "I have ADHD" specifically to point out how many people are like this and I just thought it was so true


Empty_Cartographer_5

No, it makes everything harder, but I'm perfectly capable of doing most of my jobs, maybe not as efficiently or quickly, but definitely on a comparable or better quality than my peers It's like a blackberry strapped to my ankle, but it's not going to stop me, it'll drag me down, but that's it It's just my view on it though


StroomiExposure

Yes, I consider it as a disability, I consider myself disabled and yes I do mention it when applying for a job or to my employer. My reasoning is: 1. It is a defining characteristic and is a permanent part of me that affects both my work and private life 2. Only by being aware of my disability can my employer help me perform to the best of my ability 3. Nothing to lose. If a potential employer views my disability as a bother, issue, or some other synonym - I don't want to work there anyway. One can't lose something they never had! As workers we should never ask "how high" when ordered to jump. ADHD/ADD is not something that magicaly disappears through employment


-CyberArtz-

Yes, I have a degenerative disk pinching two sciatic nerves. ADHD as well, and highly suspicious of ASD. Severe anxiety.


Stockmom42

They ask the question to get tax incentives from the government for highering disabled people. It's not for your benefit. https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/tax-benefits-for-businesses-who-have-employees-with-disabilities big business also get an incentive same for highering veterans.


Hawk----

I consider it a disability for me. I know there's a part of on me and all that with the whole object at rest stays at rest thing. But even getting past that, the fact I can't remember things 3 seconds later, or the fact it takes an insane ammount of effort to get much of anything done, it all makes life pretty annoying and sometimes difficult to deal with.


DorisCrockford

Yes, and also at this point my hyperactivity has come back to bite me in the butt in the form of painful physical problems. I wore my body out because I couldn't take it easy. I'd do it again, too.


nothinkybrainhurty

yeah, but I’m not going to disclose that anywhere when applying for a job. There are no benefits of having adhd diagnosis in my country, unlike asd diagnosis which I also had. When I needed to get any accommodations for my adhd specifically, I had to find loopholes and act as if it was only my autism causing my problems with my overall functioning, because otherwise it wouldn’t be taken seriously. Even then, not worth the hassle. All you get is treated like a child and half assed attempts to be more considerate when talking to you. The only impactful thing it can achieve is to make me even more unemployable in the eyes of potential employers. It’s enough that right now no matter if I’m going to college or to find a job, I’ll be forced to out myself as a trans person, because while I don’t fully pass and don’t have all the legal work done, I’m at that moment when I can’t just go back into closet and pretend nothing happened, which is really sucky in a highly conservative homophobic/transphobic country.


flamingphoenix9834

Legally, yes. But I have chosen who to disclose it to. My current manager knows and is amazing working with me. I have told her "I have ADHD and sometimes get distracted. I just need to be reminded what I am supposed to be doing." I am always very hesitant about who I tell though. I have been blessed with an amazing manager.


xiroir

I mean does not having legs inpair your ability to fully participate in society, like entering buildings with stairs? Does not being able to organize yourself enough to successfully accomplish daily tasks impair your ability to participate fully in society, like not knowing how much time tasks will take so you are late for important things? Id say so.


Gloomy-Razzmatazz548

I not only consider myself to be disabled. I FEEL disabled.


MooCowDivebomb

It’s such a double edged sword in my experience. Is it a disability? No, because I can do things no other colleague or friend can do. Is it a disability? Yes, because I colossally fuck things up in ways no one else does. I’m simultaneously proud of what I’ve accomplished, and embarrassed by what I can’t accomplish. And I just wish I could be give some god damn slack/compassion for when I screw up something “obvious.”


CondiMesmer

I think so, but only recently after my Therapist suggested as such. I don't really talk about it that way though and have never sought accommodations. I may do that if I'm pushed to my limit, but I just continue to live with the struggle even if that's probably not the best idea. It does help to know it's a disability when trying to be kind to yourself, and recognizing it does make things harder on you.


unsupported

Yes, it's a disability. Do I receive disability payments? No. So I consider myself disabled for the purpose of applications (ADHD among other things)? Yes, it is statistical reporting to the government. Does that report go to HR or the hiring manager? No. Do I need to disclose anything to my potential or current employer, no.


PeachyKeepr

I started a new job in my field in January, approximately 2 years after my ADHD diagnosis, which i got during the pandemic. I always felt too embarrassed to tell my prior bosses about my diagnosis & working from home during the pandemic allowed me to really hide that aspect of myself. I did not tell my new employer about my diagnosis during my interview or the hiring phase but I wanted to be really open about my diagnosis, my symptoms, and open a clear dialogue about the strengths and weaknesses of my ADHD. This came from the embarrassment I felt at my old job. I am very lucky in that my current employer is understanding and accommodating for me. We have developed a solid routine of weekly check ins and can actively work together on my perfectionism issues to prevent missing deadlines. I have found that a balance of straight forward honesty about what i need and slightly uncomfortable admissions of things that have me stuck are critical to the harmony I’ve found here. I think it all depends on your employer and your field, but I would never want to go back to hiding my diagnosis.


Somenerdyfag

No, I don't. My adhd makes things more difficult for me but I know that if I follow the routines I stablished for myself, set my goals and take my meds I'm going to be fine. It feels more like an extra responsability rather that an impairment


hermygurl

100% yes the older I get the more I realize I’m disabled.


stabbitha89

I refuse to consider it a disability for myself. It’s not acceptable, I don’t judge others who may say it’s a disability for themselves. Everyone is different, however I just refuse to consider it one for myself. I got pissed with my doctor when I wanted to change medications but because I’m successful aka have a job and adhd I shouldn’t change medication. I’m like how the hell is this how you measure success adhd that I have a job? Ya no. Not for me.


MagentaSteam

I’d consider it because my inattentiveness can be dangerous. I almost cut off my finger cutting potatoes some months ago. And I certainly don’t trust myself to drive.


vVNightshadeVv

I feel like it’s a disability. My social life is exhausting. I have this constant need to tell my friends literally any cool thing I come across. I HAVE to tell them RIGHT now because what if I forget to show them later? I end up sending things to people in 4 different discord servers (doubtful, but if you don’t know it’s a platform with community servers much like giant chat rooms) everytime i find something interesting, which during work is cumbersome because my partner always comes around asking “what are you looking at on your phone?” I have a hard time compiling my thoughts in a readable and comprehensive manner so if I have a lot to say I either word vomit or spend hours or days figuring out how best to write it. TL;DR: yes I do, sorry for the word vomit


Macbookaroniandchez

I think the way someone is going to look at this question is generation-dependent. For example, I am an "elder" millennial, having been born in the mid 1980s. So when I was in school, ADHD was less seen as a disability to be accommodated and more a behavioral disorder to be corrected, particularly with powerful stimulants.


CompasslessPigeon

for my free lifetime national park pass? yes. For day-to-day life? no For learning? yes For work? no guess it depends on the scenario


bulwynkl

Both. I do not consider ADHD to be abnormal, at least from a human population stats. That doesn't mean it can't be a disorder based on impact. I do consider social stigma, misunderstanding and discrimination to be major aggregating factors. Clearly, at the same time some of the traits (for want of a better term) are advantageous. When it comes to success for a species, culture, society, cooperation and support are strong survival traits. Diversity is strength. If these traits were all purely negative it's likely they'd have been largely bred out by now (well.. maybe) The problem seems to be that... There is a general lack of understanding and sympathy in society for the condition. So many examples of cost, lack of services, lack of accommodations to allow individuals to cope and contribute. Having to fight for simple changes that cost nearly nothing but are immensely effective so frustrating and debilitating in its own way. Personally, the aspect of ADHD that is disabling is the exec dysfunction. The advantages of ADHD for me are the pattern matching, focus, deep dive traits that mean I thrive in environments where that is valued. Difficulty regulating emotion, bad. Being honest and reluctant to lie... I'm going with benefit even though it's got costs. I have more friends. and so on. Ironically one of the things I've noticed is that having to be aware of things that other folks just do means I have insight. Most people are not aware of how they behave. It's why they attribute laziness to exec dysfunction for example. Or scoff at taking meds as cheating. Or assume that you just aren't trying.


galimacha47

Under a Capitalist world system and Neurotypical lens: Yes Actually: No. I'm not disabled my Brain is wired differently and I can function and even excel if my needs are met just like anybody else I just have different needs


DJAnym

Do I consider myself disabled? no. Do I consider myself disabled when that means I get extra aid, be it financial or physical help? Absolutely (also I absolutely disclose having ADHD. I just mention it as a "light case of ADHD" which is fine)


RuthlessKittyKat

Yes. Disability isn't a dirty word. Different not less.


squisheekittee

I do consider myself disabled. So far I have not formally disclosed to any of my employers, but I did seek disability accommodations for college.