This legal context aside, not everyone personally defines ADHD as a disability.
This can sometimes make the association of these terms contentious.
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Is ADHD a Developmental Disability?
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For example, hyperactivity in adults may appear as extreme restlessness or wearing others out with their activity.
A developmental disability is any condition that occurs during child development that negatively impacts daily function.
These conditions can affect behavior, learning, motor skills, or language development.
Is ADHD a Learning Disability?
One of the main symptoms of ADHD that affects people in the work environment is difficulty paying attention.
Having a diagnosis of ADHD does not automatically provide you with protection under the ADA.
Youll need a healthcare professional to verify that you are disabled by your condition first.
The first step in receiving benefits is to get a diagnosis of ADHD.
The next step is to apply for disability benefits to determine if you or your child qualify.
Applications for disability benefits are considered on a case-by-case basis.
For more information, visit theSocial Security Administration website.
Criteria for diagnosing ADHD are based on consistent demonstration of inattention and/or impulsivity or hyperactivity.
Symptoms of inattention can include:
Hyperactive/impulsive behavior can include:
Sometimes ADHD isnt diagnosed until adulthood.
The diagnosis criteria include experiencing at least five persistent symptoms of inattention and/or five persistent symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity.
ADHD is considered a developmental disability, not a learning disability.
Accommodations can often be made in the classroom or work environment to help people with ADHD be more successful.
Talk to your child’s school about accommodations that are available to help your child learn more effectively.
This can significantly reduce frustration and negative behaviors that are impacting their ability to learn.
Consider seeing a therapist for family therapy for tips on managing behaviors at home as well.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Developmental disability basics.
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Department of Education.About IDEA.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.ADHD in the classroom: Helping children succeed in school.
Department of Education.Know your rights: students with ADHD.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association.ADHD at work.
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National Institute of Mental Health.Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults: what you’re gonna wanna know.
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