“I thought I was just quirky.” Plus, ADHD accommodations at work (Mananya’s story)
Nov 14, 2023
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Executive Mananya Komorowski shares her journey of discovering she has ADHD, coping with grief, and her thoughts on ADHD accommodations at work. She reflects on how her diagnosis has changed her perception of herself and discusses the challenges of managing ADHD in high-stress executive roles.
Menanya's ADHD diagnosis led her to recognize the importance of prioritizing her mental well-being and allowing herself time to grieve without distractions.
In the workplace, there is a need for ADHD accommodations, including recovery time and support for executive functioning, to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with ADHD.
Deep dives
Menanya's ADHD Diagnosis
Menanya was diagnosed with ADHD about four months ago. The realization came as an 'AHA' moment during a conversation with her grief counselor, who suggested that her hyperactivity and fast-paced thinking might be indicative of ADHD. This diagnosis came as a surprise to Menanya, as she had always attributed her quirks and hyperactivity to her personality. She decided to seek further assessment from a psychiatrist, who confirmed her severe ADHD combined type one after a series of questions. Menanya's emotional response stemmed from the realization that people may perceive her differently than she had thought, and that she may have overworked and exhausted herself in order to succeed professionally.
Coping with Grief and ADHD
Menanya shares that her ADHD diagnosis has had a significant impact on how she copes with grief. She had experienced several close deaths and major caretaking responsibilities, which took a toll on her mental health. Prior to her diagnosis, Menanya would constantly keep herself busy to avoid confronting her grief. However, learning about her ADHD made her realize the importance of allowing herself time to grieve without distractions. She acknowledges that untreated ADHD could lead to burnout and physical health issues. Menanya now prioritizes her mental well-being and self-care, understanding that giving herself the time and space to grieve is essential.
ADHD in the Workplace and Accommodations
As an executive in the advertising and PR agency industry, Menanya highlights the challenges and strengths associated with ADHD in the workplace. Constantly switching between different clients and projects requires a significant amount of executive functioning, which can be exhausting. Menanya recognizes the need for accommodations for ADHD in corporate America, such as recovery time and support for executive functioning. She suggests that companies should consider neurodiversity as part of their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Menanya also emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma and fostering open conversations around ADHD, especially among older generations in the workforce.
Executive Mananya Komorowski has been described as “brilliant but chaotic” and “unlike any other executive.” Mananya thought she was just quirky, until she found out she has ADHD.
Over the last few years, Mananya has experienced a lot of loss. A number of her loved ones have died. To cope, she’d set her emotions aside and hyperfocus on work. Then her grief counselor recommended an ADHD test. Now, she’s making space to process her feelings. And she’s thinking a lot about ADHD accommodations at work — especially in high-stress executive roles.
Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give
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