What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurological disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness that is usually first diagnosed in childhood. The symptoms of ADHD can vary depending on the individual but often include:
- Difficulty paying attention and staying focused
- Excessive activity and restlessness
- Acting impulsively without thinking
- Difficulty following instructions and completing tasks
- Forgetfulness and disorganization
ADHD makes it challenging for a person to focus and maintain attention, especially on tasks that are considered boring. This leads to issues with organization, time management, and forgetfulness. The hyperactivity and impulsiveness can manifest as excessive talking, fidgeting, inability to sit still, interrupting conversations, and rushing through tasks without reading instructions fully.
ADHD impact on life
ADHD symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Without proper treatment and management, ADHD can make it difficult to succeed in school, work and relationships. Adults with untreated ADHD are more likely to have problems such as:
- Poor academic and work performance
- Unemployment and financial issues
- Strained relationships
- Increased risk of substance abuse
- Low self-esteem
In addition to the core symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, ADHD is often associated with other conditions such as:
- Learning disabilities
- Depression and anxiety
- Oppositional defiant disorder
- Conduct disorder
- Substance use disorders
Living with ADHD can be challenging, but with proper treatment, management strategies, and support, people with ADHD can thrive and live successful, fulfilling lives.
ADHD diagnosis
Getting an accurate ADHD diagnosis is the first step to accessing treatment and support services. The diagnostic process typically involves:
- Physical exam – To rule out any physical cause for symptoms
- Psychological evaluation – To assess intellectual ability, memory and concentration, social perception, etc.
- Interviews – With parents, teachers, spouses to understand history of symptoms
- Rating scales – To assess severity of symptoms
- Observation – Of hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention
Since there is no single test for ADHD, the diagnosis is based on a complete clinical assessment. Symptoms must be present before age 12, occur in multiple settings, and significantly impair functioning. Adults being evaluated for ADHD will be asked for childhood history and prior school records can be helpful.
Getting properly diagnosed is important before considering ADHD treatment options. Misdiagnosis is common since symptoms can mirror other conditions like anxiety, depression and learning disabilities. A thorough assessment helps rule out other causes.
ADHD treatment
While there is no cure for ADHD, there are several evidence-based treatment options that can help manage symptoms:
- Medication – Stimulants like Adderall, Ritalin and Vyvanse are commonly prescribed to help with focus, attention and hyperactivity.
- Behavior therapy – Helps learn new skills and strategies for organization, time management, controlling impulses.
- Education support – Classroom accommodations, assistant technology to support learning.
- Lifestyle changes – Healthy habits like physical activity, reduced screen time, and proper sleep and nutrition.
Treatment needs to be tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms and impairments. A combination of medication, therapy, education support and lifestyle changes is usually most effective. Getting appropriate treatment can significantly improve ADHD symptoms and quality of life.
ADHD and social security disability benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees two programs that provide disability benefits – Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Individuals with ADHD may qualify for disability benefits under these programs if:
- They have been diagnosed with ADHD by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist
- Their ADHD symptoms severely limit their ability to work and earn an income
- Their impairment has lasted or is expected to last for at least 1 year or result in death
To receive SSDI benefits specifically, the individual must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain period of time. Disabled adult children may also qualify if a parent is deceased or starts receiving retirement or disability benefits.
SSI has strict financial requirements, but does not require work credits. Income and financial resources must be below a certain threshold to qualify for SSI.
ADHD disability approval rates
The SSA has a list of impairments that automatically qualify for disability benefits if certain criteria are met. ADHD is not on this list, so approval is decided on a case-by-case basis. Approval rates for ADHD alone are low, with studies showing:
- 28% approval for SSDI claims citing ADHD as primary condition
- 24% approval for SSI claims citing ADHD as primary condition
This does not mean approval is impossible. But it is crucial to thoroughly document ADHD symptoms, treatment history, and exact functional limitations. Having an additional mental or physical impairment improves chances of approval. Experienced disability lawyers can significantly boost claim success as well.
ADHD disability application process
The initial disability application involves submitting detailed forms describing medical conditions, work history, education and functional abilities. Important steps include:
- Meeting technical criteria for work credits (SSDI) or financial need (SSI)
- Providing medical records documenting ADHD diagnosis and treatment
- Listing all medical providers involved in ADHD care
- Describing how ADHD impairs ability to work full time
- Explaining how symptoms interfere with daily activities
Most claims are denied initially and need to go through two stages of appeals. The process can take several months to well over a year for final decision. Having an experienced disability lawyer represent your claim can shorten wait times and increase approval odds.
ADHD disability benefits
If approved, ADHD disability benefits through SSDI and SSI provide:
- Monthly income – SSDI pays according to your prior earnings, while SSI pays up to $841/month for individuals in 2023.
- Medical coverage – SSDI recipients get Medicare coverage after a 2-year waiting period. SSI recipients usually qualify for Medicaid.
- Dependent benefits – Eligible spouses, children or dependent parents may qualify for additional payments.
- Work incentives – The SSA offers various work incentive programs to encourage part-time work.
These benefits are not taxable and help provide financial stability when ADHD prevents full time employment. Approval also provides protection such as guaranteed health coverage and return to work support.
Other financial assistance options
In addition to federal disability benefits, other sources of support may be available for adults with ADHD:
State or local assistance
- Temporary cash benefits
- Food stamps/SNAP
- Housing assistance vouchers
- Low-income home energy assistance
- Reduced public transportation fares
Eligibility is based on financial need, so income limits apply. But worth exploring for help with basic living expenses.
Private disability insurance
For those who paid for private disability insurance through an employer or on their own, ADHD coverage depends on the policy terms. Short or long-term benefits may be available if ADHD prevents working.
Student accommodations
The ADA and Section 504 legislation require colleges to provide “reasonable accommodations” to students with disabilities like ADHD. This can include extra time for assignments, access to assistive technology, reduced distraction housing, etc.
Non-profit organizations
Groups like Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) offer information, resources and support programs at low or no cost. They may provide educational scholarships, daily life assistance, or help navigating the disability application process.
Crowdfunding
Sites like GoFundMe allow creating fundraisers for medical costs, living expenses and other needs. Can supplement disability income while waiting for claim approval.
Conclusion
While securing disability benefits for ADHD alone can be challenging, it is possible in cases where symptoms severely impair functioning for an extended period. Comprehensive medical documentation, targeted application advice, and legal representation are key to improving approval odds. If disability claim is denied, other financial support may be available through state programs, student accommodations, non-profit groups and crowdfunding sources. With proper treatment and support, adults with ADHD can thrive in work and relationships. Disability benefits help provide a financial safety net on difficult days.