Why You Need People With ADHD in Your Agency
With their natural inclination to jump from task to task and manage multiple stimuli simultaneously, individuals with Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can navigate a hectic scene like a squirrel on a caffeine rush. While others may become overwhelmed, these individuals find themselves right at home in the midst of the madness, effortlessly juggling various responsibilities and keeping everyone on their toes. Just imagine their colleagues struggling to keep up while the ADHD first responder zips around, energized and ready to tackle anything that comes their way. It's like having a human whirlwind on the emergency scene—chaotic but surprisingly effective.
Around 10% of children in the general population are diagnosed with ADHD, and about 5% of adults have the condition, with the understanding that one doesn't always "grow out" of it (Saline, 2023). Surprisingly, or maybe not so surprisingly, around 20% of first responders show signs of ADHD (Sachs, 1997). The ever-changing, risky environment with lights, fire, and chaos seems like it was designed to attract people with ADHD. But is that a bad thing? I don't think so.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairing levels of inattention, disorganization, and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. Inattention and disorganization manifest as an inability to stay on task, appearing inattentive or not listening, and frequently losing necessary materials for tasks. These symptoms are inconsistent with age or developmental level. Hyperactivity-impulsivity involves excessive levels of activity, fidgeting, an inability to remain seated, intruding into other people's activities, and difficulty waiting (Athanasios Koutsoklenis & Juho Honkasilta, 2023).
Law enforcement, fire departments, and even the military provide a structure within that chaos and allow people with ADHD to thrive. While there are some downsides, having an entire crew of people with ADHD wouldn't be ideal. They may procrastinate on mundane tasks, get easily distracted, or struggle with sitting still for too long. However, when you point the caffeinated squirrel in the right direction, they can get a lot done. You can even trigger their dopamine response by giving them artificial deadlines or making the mundane more exciting. For emergency services agencies, the benefits of individuals with managed ADHD can significantly outweigh the downsides. These individuals often exhibit traits such as hyperfocus, out-of-the-box thinking, increased energy levels, adaptability, and compassion.
People with ADHD can experience periods of hyperfocus, where they become intensely focused and engaged in tasks that interest them. In the high-pressure and fast-paced environment of first responder work, this ability to hyperfocus can be beneficial, allowing individuals to concentrate intensely on critical tasks and remain attentive during emergencies.
ADHD is often associated with creative thinking and the ability to generate innovative ideas (Cherry, 2021). This stems from their increased ability to make connections between seemingly disconnected things. First responders frequently encounter unexpected situations that require quick thinking and problem-solving. The power of individuals with ADHD to think outside the box and approach problems from unique angles can contribute to effective decision-making in high-stress situations.
Additionally, people with ADHD often have higher energy levels than the general population (Cherry, 2021). This increased energy can be advantageous in physically demanding roles like firefighting or search and rescue, as it provides individuals with the stamina and endurance required to perform well during long and demanding shifts.
Individuals with ADHD are often accustomed to dealing with unpredictability and adapting to changing circumstances (Cherry, 2021). This flexibility can be an asset in the dynamic and rapidly evolving environments encountered by first responders, where they need to adjust their strategies and actions quickly based on the situation at hand.
Some research suggests that individuals with ADHD may possess heightened levels of empathy and compassion (Hallowell, 2021). These qualities can be beneficial in first responder roles, allowing individuals to connect with and provide support to people in distress or emergency situations.
While there may be challenges in working with others at times, managing or mitigating these downsides can allow individuals with ADHD to benefit any first responder agency. It may take a bit of acceptance and patience.
It is important to note that self-diagnosis of any medical or mental health condition, including ADHD, is not recommended. ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, for an accurate diagnosis. Self-diagnosis can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and potentially inappropriate treatments. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have ADHD, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. They can provide guidance, support, and appropriate interventions based on an individual's specific symptoms and needs.
