What can I do at work to help someone when they need movement, noise or another person to get going?

Short answer

Make optional ways of working available without treating them as proof of a problem.

What this can look like

Some people may work better with headphones, a quiet desk, co-working or written briefs.

Why it can happen

Movement breaks, quiet co-working, headphones and a nearby colleague can help some people get into work. The choice should remain with the employee.

What might help

Offer practical options to everyone where possible; do not single people out or demand an explanation.

What the research helps explain

Australian ADHD guidance and international consensus evidence describe ADHD as affecting everyday functioning for some people, including attention, planning, memory, time and follow-through. At work, practical supports and fair design can be useful without identifying anyone as having ADHD.

What can vary

Stress, sleep, health, task design, role clarity and preference can create similar work patterns. Do not diagnose employees, seek private medical information or make support conditional on disclosure.

For this situation

For you, provide options and avoid converting support into supervision.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.

• Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline for ADHD — Australian evidence guidance on ADHD, assessment, functional impact and support.
• Job demands — Australian guidance on managing cognitive demands, role clarity, workload, control and support.