You don’t have to allow your diagnosis to control you and take over your social or work life. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders that can make it challenging for adults to navigate social interactions in work and personal relationships. However, with the right strategies and tools, individuals with ADHD and ASD can improve their social skills and build strong relationships with their colleagues, friends, and family members. In this blog post, we will discuss how adults with ADHD and ASD can utilize social skills in the workplace, relationships, and asking for what they want.

1. Social Skills in the Workplace In the workplace, social skills are essential for building positive relationships with colleagues, clients, and superiors. Adults with ADHD and ASD may struggle with communication, social cues, and time management, which can make it challenging to succeed in the workplace. However, the following tips can help improve social skills in the workplace:

• Active Listening: Active listening is an essential social skill that involves paying attention to what others are saying and responding appropriately. Individuals with ADHD and ASD can improve their listening skills by maintaining eye contact, asking questions, and summarizing what the speaker has said to ensure they understand correctly.
• Time Management: Individuals with ADHD can struggle with time management, which can cause them to miss deadlines or appointments. One way to improve time management skills is by using a planner or calendar to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Additionally, breaking down larger projects into smaller tasks can help manage time more effectively.
• Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal communication is a critical component of social interactions in the workplace. Individuals with ASD may struggle with non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. However, practicing social cues through role-playing and seeking feedback from colleagues can help improve non-verbal communication.
• Conflict Resolution: Conflict is inevitable in any workplace, but individuals with ADHD and ASD may struggle with conflict resolution due to difficulties with communication and social cues. However, learning conflict resolution skills, such as active listening, empathy, and compromise, can help individuals with ADHD and ASD navigate conflict successfully.

2. Social Skills in Relationships Social skills are also essential in personal relationships, including friendships, romantic relationships, and family relationships. Adults with ADHD and ASD may struggle with social cues, communication, and maintaining relationships. However, the following tips can help improve social skills in relationships:

• Communication: Communication is essential in any relationship, but individuals with ADHD and ASD may struggle to express themselves effectively. Using “I” statements, active listening, and summarizing what the other person has said can help improve communication skills in relationships.
• Boundaries: Setting boundaries is crucial in any relationship to ensure that both parties’ needs are met. Individuals with ADHD and ASD may struggle with setting boundaries, but learning to say “no” and setting clear boundaries can improve relationships.
• Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. Individuals with ADHD and ASD may struggle with empathy, but practicing empathy through role-playing and seeking feedback from friends and family members can help improve empathy skills.
• Compromise: Compromise is essential in any relationship to ensure that both parties’ needs are met. Individuals with ADHD and ASD may struggle with compromise, but learning to compromise through active listening, understanding the other person’s needs, and finding a mutually beneficial solution can improve relationships.