Introduction: In the last few decades, the proportion of sickness absence due to psychiatric diagnoses has increased drastically. This can be attributed to several factors, including a transition from physical to psychosocial strain at work, and difficulties balancing full-time employment alongside family obligations. A population that may have certain difficulties balancing work, leisure, and family, is adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adults with ADHD are more stressed, more often on sick leave, and receive sickness absence recommendations to a greater extent than adults without ADHD. Thus, it is urgent to manage and prevent stress and other work- related mental illnesses in this population. This project evaluates the feasibility, acceptability, and effects of an internet-based cognitive- behavioral stress-management program, developed specifically for this at-risk population.

Method: The novel stress-management program is based on existing support and interventions for ADHD adults. It is also inspired by existing support and interventions for relevant psychological disorders based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. This includes both tailored and transdiagnostic CBT applications. The development includes thoroughly assessing previous research, including quantitative and qualitative studies, meta-analyses, and literature reviews. The most relevant and effective material is adapted to the internet format and the ADHD-adult population. Modules include information and exercises on: how ADHD symptoms affect work, leisure, and relationships; planning and prioritizing on and off the job; communication, assertiveness, and setting boundaries; sleep and recovery; and more. The program will be evaluated in a pilot study during the spring of 2023, revised, and later tested in a randomized controlled trial.

Results: At the time of writing, recruitment to the pilot study is about to begin. Preliminary results are expected to be presented at the 10th World Congress of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies in Seoul.

Discussion: Despite the fact that many adults with ADHD are more stressed, more often on sick leave, and receive sickness absence recommendations to a greater extent than adults without ADHD, few studies have explored the possibility to manage and prevent these negative outcomes. This project will further the knowledge of possible ways to manage and prevent stress and other work-related mental illness among ADHD adults. If the internet-based CBT stress-management program shows promising results, it could quickly be made available to caregivers and/or the public, conceivably conserving considerable resources for individuals, employers, and society.