Great job ideas for introverts living with ADHD

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can show up in many ways.

Some people think that only outgoing people can have ADHD, but that’s not true.

Even quiet, shy, or introverted people can have ADHD.

This article talks about ADHD, the wrong ideas people often have about it, and how it affects introverts.

We also talk about the good things that come with having ADHD, and how these can help introvert people do well in certain jobs.

What is ADHD?

ADHD can look different in different people. The Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA) says that people with ADHD often have trouble paying attention, act without thinking, or both.

Research is still being done on ADHD, including how it relates to being an introvert.

Many things that are common in people with ADHD are also common in introverted people.

For example, the world around them might feel overwhelming with too much going on, they may want to be alone, or feel tired after being with groups of people.

Can you be introvert and have ADHD?

Yes, you can be introvert and have ADHD. A study in the US found that 58% of children with ADHD showed signs of introversion – much more than expected.

Introverted people usually like calm places and thinking to themselves. While being introverted and having ADHD are different, they can overlap.

Some introvert people may also have trouble concentrating and staying organised, which are common in people with ADHD.

Emily Harris, an author specialising in ADHD and behavioural science, outlines the characteristics of introverted and extroverted people in her article from ADHD Guide.

“An extroverted person with hyperactive disorder might display external hyperactivity. An introvert may experience internal hyperactivity. This internal restlessness can lead to daydreaming and a racing mind.”

If you're not an introvert, you can still recognise the characteristics, including:

being more inward-focused
enjoy deep thinking
prefer solitude or small gatherings

Harris also mentions social fatigue as a common issue for ADHD introverts.

“The constant effort to manage symptoms, particularly in social settings, can lead to exhaustion.”

If you’re an introvert who has been diagnosed with ADHD, recognising and understanding your own unique characteristics may help when looking to start or grow a career.

ADHD and mental health

People with ADHD can also have mental health problems like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder.

We keep these in mind when we suggest jobs and work environments.

You may also find some of our additional mental health articles useful:

It’s important to remember your experience with ADHD, or any other disability and health condition - is totally unique, and jobs that may be ideal for one person, may not be suitable for you.

What are the best jobs for introverts with ADHD?

Good jobs for introverted people with ADHD usually involve a comfortable amount of talking to others, and also offer change and flexibility.

Here are some things to think about when looking for a job:

How much talking to others is comfortable for you?
Do you like to switch between tasks often?
Do you think quickly and like fast-paced jobs?
Do you like to think about the big picture?

Job ideas for introvert people with ADHD

Here are some job ideas for introverted people with ADHD:

Photographer: If you’re creative and like change, photography could be a good job for you. Some photographers thrive on being able to create the environment they need to work and achieve amazing results from deep focus.
Counsellor: If you like helping others and prefer talking one-on-one, you might like being a counsellor.
Tutor: If you’re good at explaining things and don’t like big groups, consider being a tutor. Tutoring sessions tend to be shorter, allowing you to take breaks when needed. You’ll get to make a big difference for individual students.
Fitness trainer: If you're looking for an active, hands-on career, fitness training or personal training could be a good fit. Work one-on-one with clients or teach group sessions.
Ranger: If you love the outdoors, and don't mind working independently, consider a career as a ranger. Rangers monitor wildlife, carry out surveys and patrol natural areas.
Chef / kitchen hand: If you thrive in fast-paced environments, but prefer to be in the background, working as chef or kitchen hand could be a rewarding job. Use your creativity and quick thinking to prepare meals for customers.

Help at work for introverts with ADHD

If you face barriers in being successful in your job, you might be able to get changes made at your workplace.

There are known as workplace modifications and if you’re eligible government funding may cover some of the cost for the changes.

These workplace modifications can help you do your job better and feel more confident. Examples of changes for introverted people with ADHD might include:

Being able to work from home sometimes
Using noise cancelling headphones
Having a private workspace or a desk next to, or facing a wall
Using apps to help with scheduling and organisation
Taking regular breaks

Finding a job that’s right for you

Everyone is different when it comes to work. If you’re an introvert with ADHD, the best job for you will let you use your strengths and manage your challenges.

If you’re having trouble finding a job, you might be able to get help through Disability Employment Services, delivered by APM Employment Services.

When you sign up with APM, you’ll have time to talk about your situation and what you want in a job.

Our employment consultants will help you find jobs that are right for you. And when you find a job, we’ll help you get settled and deal with any problems at work.

Call us at 1800 276 276 to talk about finding a job that works for you.

References

AADPA - Talking about ADHD Language Guide
National Library of Medicine - The Relationship of Personality Style and ADHD in Children
ADHD Guide - ADHD Introvert | Insights and Support Strategies

APM supports people with disability, injury, or health conditions through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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