I get it. The idea of asking for accommodations at work can feel like stepping into uncharted territory—uncomfortable and a little intimidating. I’ve been there, putting up with chaotic meetings, missed details, and struggling to focus, thinking, “I can handle this” (or rather, pretending I could). But here’s the truth I wish I had told myself sooner: when it’s time to ask for ADD accommodations at work, you owe it to yourself to take that step. It’s not about weakness; it’s about giving yourself the tools to thrive.

If you’re wondering whether you should make the leap, here’s a guide to help you decide when the right time is. Spoiler alert—it’s probably sooner than you think.

You Feel Like You’re Constantly Playing Catch-Up

There’s this exhausting cycle ADD can trap you in—struggling to stay organized, consistently forgetting small details, or zoning out during a meeting. If you’re spending more time recovering from those moments than doing your actual job, it’s a big red flag. Accommodation may be as simple as structured deadlines, flexible schedules, or noise-canceling headphones.

Anxiety Around Work Is Becoming “Normal”

Emails, meetings, deadlines—do they leave you feeling like you’re just bracing for failure? That anxious, tight-chested feeling might whisper, “You’re just not good enough,” but trust me, it’s lying. These stressors are often manageable with accommodations like clear task breakdowns or extra time on projects. The right tools nudge your brain in the right direction. An anxious spiral doesn’t have to be standard operating procedure.

Your Strengths Feel Overshadowed by Struggles

You bring so much to the table—creativity, unique problem-solving skills, out-of-the-box thinking, and more. But if ADD symptoms are overwhelming those strengths, it’s time to level the playing field. The workplace can be more hostile for women, even today, but that shouldn’t stop you from advocating for yourself. Accommodations don’t take away from your abilities; they enhance them, letting the world see all you have to offer.

Your Gut (and Brain) Are Screaming “Enough”

You know that little voice inside that says, “This isn’t sustainable”? Yeah, maybe listen to it. I ignored mine for so long I practically needed an intervention to admit I could use some help. When every day feels like an uphill battle, and you’re spending more time surviving than thriving, it’s worth asking yourself whether this could be the tipping point.

Give Yourself a Break—Literally

I’ll admit it—I waited far too long before requesting accommodations and spent nearly a year stuck in a fog of overwhelm and self-doubt that I didn’t need to put up with. Asking for help—especially formal, work-related help—felt like admitting defeat. But it’s not. It’s about equipping yourself to succeed.

When it’s time to ask for ADD accommodations at work, trust that you are your own best advocate. I promise that the fallout you’re imagining is never as bad as the day-to-day struggle you’re already enduring. Take the leap. You’ve got this.