1 min read
15:09:2022
13:30
14 September is National Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD Awareness day. It highlights a condition that affects not only children but often continues into adulthood and, if not appropriately treated, impacts the ability to find and keep work.

Radio Islam International spoke with the Head of Healthcare Leadership at the Stellenbosch Business School, Prof Renata Schoeman, on how individuals with ADHD can remain productive in the workforce.

According to Prof Renata Schoeman, more than one million South African adults with ADHD represent an untapped opportunity for businesses to enhance inclusion, advance workforce diversity, and improve their performance and competitive advantage.

Schoeman revealed that adults with ADHD can be disorganised, distracted, and have poor time management.

However, they can also be seen as workaholics and highly productive.

“It is important that if someone has ADHD discuss with their employer to compensate their needs, allow them to have noise cancellation headset to prevent distractibility or other adjustments like having a body system frequent reminder, frequent feedback,” said Schoeman.

Schoeman said employers need to focus more on the strengths (energy, good interpersonal skills, creativity) of people with ADHD instead of their weaknesses to help them develop and liberate their strengths to fulfil their potential.

[LISTEN] to the podcast here

By Nokwanda Dlangamandla