The workplace can be a stressful and demanding place for anyone. Unfortunately, when people are struggling with a psychological disorder, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD/ADD, the workplace can be even more difficult. Below are some common ways in which psychological disorders can affect a person’s occupational performance.

• Trouble blocking out or filtering environmental stimuli – working in a loud area or near a piece of noisy equipment may be very difficult.

• Maintaining concentration – short attention span, fidgeting, leaving workspace, being distracted, and difficulty remembering instructions. 

• Maintaining energy – finding the energy to complete a full day of work, fighting drowsiness.

• Managing time pressures and multitasking– balancing assignments, prioritizing and meeting deadlines.

• Interactions with coworkers – fitting in, talking with coworkers, reading/understanding social cues.

• Coping with negative feedback – interpreting criticism, understanding what needs to be changed to improve, trouble changing due to low self-esteem.

• Dealing with change – navigating unexpected changes at work, changes in protocols, job tasks, or supervisors/coworkers

It is very important that if  you or someone you know is experience work related struggles due to anxiety, adult ADHD, depression, or relationship issues, that  you seek assistance. Your career development and personal satisfaction may depend on it. A mental health professional that understands the demands of the corporate environment and can take the time to help you develop specific skills for improvement is crucial. The Silicon Valley and San Francisco are an incredible place of opportunity, but can also be a place of great pressure.