ADHD Vs Home office

The challenges of being a software developer with ADHD

in the home office.

We are in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Awareness Month, and what

better time to talk about how the home office has impacted software
developers at work.

But ... What is Attention Deficit Hyperativity Disorder?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder marked by an

ongoing pattern of inattention and / or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes
with functioning or development.

Software development, on the other hand, requires a lot of attention to detail

and is also very practical, which brings its pros and cons. Since people with
ADHD aside from being energetic and very creative, it is easier for them to have
clear points and goals when working on specific projects.

However, there are also difficulties, since there may be distractions or

hyperactivity can affect the structure of some code, without forgetting to follow
up or continue some projects without clear goals or deadlines.

According to the "DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and

Technology) Center" Employees with a neurodevelopmental disorder, including
ADHD, reported having difficulties dealing with distractions in the environment,
time management and prioritization skills, of In the same way, they showed
other advantages such as working in a sensory controlled space, precision of
focus in projects and new ways of organizing themselves.
How can we help our ADHDers?

- Make sure the information is as clear and detailed as possible.

- Defined deadlines
- Variation of tasks in the week
- Constant and programmed communication.
- Task reminder, this can help sort priorities.
f you are an adhder remember:

–Establish a work area without distractions

–Establish a schedule between tasks and breaks
- Use a task reminder! o Have a blackboard or pos its on hand to calander your
homework.
- Do your routine
- Noise isolating headphones are always a good option!

Remember to always ask a colleague for help is fine.

Many ADHDers don't have accommodations to their needs, since there is a fear of
being discriminated against or there is simply no interest from the employer in favor
of neurodivergent inclusivity.

Remember that all ADHDers are different and all needs are different, it is important
to listen and empathize with others to create an environment that enriches and
favors everyone's experience.

How do neurodiverse and neurotypical software engineers differ in the workplace? | DO-IT. (n.d.).
Www.washington.edu. Retrieved October 12, 2021, from https://www.washington.edu/doit/how-do-neurodiverse-
and-neurotypical-software-engineers-differ-workplace

Programming With ADHD: The Good, the Bad and the Hyperfocus. (2020, October 14). ADaptHD.
https://adapthd.com/topics/coping-strategies/programming-with-adhd-the-good-the-bad-and-the-
hyperfocus/

ADHD at Work: A Guide for Employers – Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada. (n.d.). Caddac.ca. Retrieved
October 12, 2021, from https://caddac.ca/document/adhd-at-work-a-guide-for-employers/

Editors, Add. (2020, March 18). Working from Home? Telecommuting Strategies from Adults with ADHD.
ADDitude. https://www.additudemag.com/working-from-home-adhd-strategies/