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How to explain ADHD-related misses to a manager? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Missing a deadline or losing focus can feel uncomfortable to discuss, but for adults with ADHD, these lapses are often linked to executive functioning differences rather than effort or motivation. According to the NICE guideline NG87 on ADHD management, adults benefit when managers understand how ADHD affects organisation, time management, and working memory. Explaining this clearly helps prevent misunderstandings and supports more consistent workplace communication. 

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How to approach the conversation constructively 

Honest but structured communication is key. Occupational research from PubMed (Executive Function Deficits and Job Burnout, 2024) shows that explaining difficulties in terms of cognitive processing, not personality, builds trust and reduces stigma. 

Framing the issue with clarity 

When discussing missed deadlines or forgotten tasks, describe how ADHD symptoms affected the process for example, “I underestimated the time required because I struggle with time perception.” This approach, supported by CIPD’s Neuroinclusion at Work guidance, reframes lapses as practical challenges that can be mitigated with structure. Suggest concrete strategies such as mid-project check-ins, visual reminders, or shared task lists. 

Using neuroinclusive communication 

According to ACAS Neurodiversity at Work advice, managers respond best when conversations are framed around collaboration rather than disclosure anxiety. Explaining specific triggers and supports like needing written summaries or predictable feedback cycles creates psychological safety and helps maintain consistency. 

Private assessment services such as ADHD Certify provide diagnostic assessments and post-diagnostic guidance across the UK, helping adults understand how ADHD-related executive challenges can influence communication and performance at work. 

Key takeaway 

Explaining ADHD-related misses is about building understanding, not making excuses. By describing how executive functions affect workflow, suggesting practical supports, and keeping dialogue open, adults with ADHD can turn uncomfortable moments into opportunities for awareness and teamwork. 

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Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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