ADHD and me

December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). Since the United Nations first began marking this day over 30 years ago, it has been internationally recognised as a way to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society.

Diversity, equity and inclusion is an integral part of our firm’s vision and strategy, it’s essential to hear from our people about their lived experiences Katharine Wadia, a neuro-divergent associate in the London Incentives team, discusses her experiences with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), what it is like navigating that as a lawyer, and what advice she has for colleagues and others.

Why do you want to share your experience of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)?

As we grow closer to IDPD I’ve been thinking about what we can do to make the world a more equitable place and inclusive space. I consider the office to be as good a place to start as any, so I’d like to share my lived experience to raise awareness of disabilities in the workplace and hopefully encourage people to feel comfortable talking about their disability with colleagues and be provided with the support they need.

I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult putting me in the 3% of the UK adult population with ADHD (women make up only 1% of this). I can only speak to my experience, but since being diagnosed I’ve been able to see myself through the lens of my diagnosis, giving me a better idea and understanding of who I am and how to bring out the best in myself.

Despite its prevalence, ADHD remains widely misunderstood. Growing up I was aware that neuro-atypical people could be perceived as argumentative, attention seeking and undisciplined so perhaps subconsciously this made me avoid getting a diagnosis earlier - although this would have made life a lot easier.

What is it like having ADHD in the workplace?

ADHD is an umbrella term, there are many ways to experience it but some common symptoms include disorganisation, inattention, forgetfulness and time-blindness – not exactly the traits you would put on your CV! However, studies show that people with ADHD are three times more likely to join the legal profession. In some ways, this makes complete sense – people with ADHD are naturally suited to a fast-paced environment where they can be intellectually stimulated but also supported by the structure and routine that a law firm provides.

For me one of my biggest challenges is also my biggest strengths. I experience hyperfocus which means my brain can take me down a rabbit hole on a nuanced (but sometimes unimportant) area of law. However, it also means that when engaged I’ll dive into research, deep document review, stay focused in long meetings and tune out distractions (sometimes even forgetting lunch).

I’ve found that with the appropriate education, therapy and (for me) medication, ADHD shouldn’t be seen as a hurdle to overcome but a source of strength. Of course, there are days when the pressure is on, energy is low, and my well-established coping mechanisms seem like a faint memory, but I remind myself it is the same disability that makes me diligent, innovative and understanding of diversity in others.

Tell us more about the firm has supported you

I was really impressed with how welcoming the firm’s disability network, Shine, was when I joined. The group network has made lots of achievements in a short space of time including setting up a committee, creating an online disability platform and disability friendly recruitment process, as well as hosting many events with great speakers.

I have also had regular contact with the human resources team regarding my reasonable adjustments plan. For me to function at my best in a working environment it is key I have a good system in place. I appreciate that no one size fits all, but the firm has supported me in offering hybrid working, coaching support, noise cancelling headphones and computer systems designed for neuroatypicals. In addition, they provide private medical insurance which has been a lifeline, especially with the long waiting lists and access to specialist care in the NHS.

What advice would you give to a colleague who has ADHD or is a parent of someone with ADHD?

I’d give two pieces of advice. The first one would be that you should not be so hard on yourself, having ADHD is not a failure or a character flaw, it simply cannot be separated from who you are so please treat yourself with compassion. This also goes to parents who have to write a new playbook everyday to provide the sort of nurture and learning a child with ADHD needs.

The second one would be, if you feel able, to raise your hand and ask for support. ADHD is under-diagnosed and under treated but getting the right help is essential to learning to cope in a neurotypical environment, whether the office or the classroom. I appreciate this is easier said than done and this why it is important speak out and address the stigma around this invisible disability so people feel safe to do this.