Adulting with ADHD: To Tell or Not to Tell Your Next Employer? 🇵🇭

Ever felt like you’re juggling chainsaws at work while everyone else is gracefully twirling batons? That’s the daily struggle for many Filipinos with ADHD. So, should you reveal your ADHD to your next boss? Let’s dive in!

Hey kababayans! Let’s talk about something that hits close to home for many Pinoy programmers out there: Adult ADHD in the workplace. You’re killing it as a senior developer, but juggling multiple projects feels like trying to herd kalabaw. You’ve been diagnosed with ADHD and now you’re staring down a job hunt, wondering if you should spill the beans about your ADHD. Will it be a deal-breaker? Will they think you’re not “magaling” enough?

Let’s unpack this, mga kaibigan.

Understanding the Struggle: ADHD in the Pinoy Workplace

First off, know that you’re not alone. Many Filipinos are navigating the challenges of adult ADHD. It’s like having a super-powered brain that’s also prone to wandering off on its own lakad.

• Hyperfocus Hero: You can laser-focus on one task, finishing it faster than a jeepney race in Manila.
• Multitasking Mayhem: But when it comes to juggling multiple projects, it’s like trying to keep track of all the jeepneys in Metro Manila at rush hour.
• Distraction Dilemma: Suddenly, that cute pusa video on Facebook seems way more interesting than debugging code.

The Big Question: To Disclose or Not to Disclose?

This is the million-peso question, isn’t it? Here are some things to think about:

• Legal Lowdown: In the Philippines, there’s no law requiring you to disclose your ADHD. It’s your call, kaibigan.
• Company Culture: Some companies are more supportive and understanding than others. Do your research! Check out their website, stalk their social media, maybe even ask around – parang chismis lang, but for your career!
• Your Comfort Level: This is the biggest factor. If you feel comfortable sharing, go for it. If not, that’s totally okay too.

5 Tips for Navigating the Job Hunt with ADHD

Here are some tips to help you navigate the job hunt like a pro, ADHD and all:

1. Highlight Your Strengths: Remember that hyperfocus? That’s your secret weapon! Emphasize your ability to deep dive into projects and produce amazing results. Think of it like this: you’re the superhero who can single-handedly debug a code faster than you can say “Mabuhay!”
2. Practice Your “Elevator Pitch”: Prepare a short, snappy explanation of your ADHD, focusing on how you manage it and how it can even be an asset. Think of it like your superhero origin story, short and sweet.
3. Prepare for the Interview: Practice answering common interview questions, especially those related to multitasking and time management. It’s like practicing your arnis moves, the more you prepare, the more confident you’ll be.
4. Consider Accommodations: If you get the job, think about what accommodations might help you thrive. Maybe you need a quieter workspace or flexible hours. It’s like requesting extra sawsawan for your favorite street food – it just makes the experience better!
5. Remember Your Worth: You’re a talented developer with a lot to offer. Don’t let ADHD define you or diminish your value. You’re a valuable member of the Pinoy tech community, and your skills are in demand!

Turning Your ADHD into Your Superpower

Here’s the thing: ADHD isn’t always a weakness. It can actually be your superpower!

• Creative Genius: Think outside the box? Come up with innovative solutions faster than a jeepney can swerve through traffic? That’s your ADHD brain in action!
• Passion Powerhouse: When you’re interested in something, you go all in, right? That passion can fuel amazing results. It’s like that feeling when you finally find the perfect balut – pure joy and dedication!
• Hyperfocus Hero: Remember that laser-focus we talked about? That’s your key to conquering complex tasks and delivering exceptional work.

Making the Decision That’s Right for You

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to disclose your ADHD is up to you. There’s no right or wrong answer. Weigh the pros and cons, trust your gut, and remember that you’re a talented individual with a lot to offer the Pinoy tech world.

So, go out there and rock that job hunt! And remember, you’ve got this, kabayan!