30 Sec Answer: Yes, ADHD is considered to be a disability. Those with ADHD may qualify for various forms of accommodation and support through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Introduction
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. People with ADHD have difficulty paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, and organizing or completing tasks. Although it was once thought to only affect children, recent studies have shown that adult can also experience symptoms of ADHD. This has led to the question of whether or not ADHD should be considered a disability.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders among children and adolescents in the United States. It is estimated that between 3% and 7% of all school-aged children are diagnosed with the condition. Symptoms usually appear before age 12 and include difficulty focusing on tasks, restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty controlling emotions. These symptoms can interfere with academic performance, social interactions, and other aspects of life.
How Is ADHD Diagnosed?
ADHD is typically diagnosed by an experienced healthcare professional such as a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. To make a diagnosis, they will conduct a physical exam, interview the patient about their medical history and current symptoms, evaluate their behavior at home and in school settings, review any previous evaluations conducted by teachers or other professionals, and possibly administer tests or questionnaires to assess the severity of the symptoms.
Does ADHD Qualify As A Disability Under The ADA?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines disabilities as “physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities”. People who have been formally diagnosed with ADHD may qualify for accommodations under the ADA if their symptoms significantly interfere with their daily functioning. In order for someone to receive accommodations under the ADA, they must provide documentation from a qualified healthcare provider such as a doctor or psychologist stating that they have been formally diagnosed with ADHD and that it interferes with their ability to complete major life activities.
What Types Of Accommodations Are Available For Those With ADHD?
Once someone has been determined to be eligible for accommodations under the ADA due to their ADHD diagnosis, there are several types of accommodations they can request. These include extended time on tests or assignments; alternate formats for written materials; additional breaks during lectures; flexibility in deadlines; access to tutoring services; extra support from teachers or mentors; adjustments in classroom seating arrangements; modifications to how tasks are presented; quiet workspace; access to technology; and reasonable modifications to work schedules or job duties.
How Can Parents Help Their Child With An ADHD Diagnosis?
Parents play an important role in helping their child manage their ADHD symptoms so they can succeed academically and socially. Some strategies parents can use include providing structure and consistency in routines at home; breaking down tasks into smaller steps that are easier for them to accomplish; modeling positive behavior; encouraging physical activity; helping them find ways to stay organized; setting realistic expectations; being patient and understanding when mistakes are made; finding ways to help them express emotions appropriately; and teaching self-advocacy skills so they can advocate for themselves when needed.
What Other Resources Are Available For Those With An ADHD Diagnosis?
In addition to receiving accommodations under the ADA, those with an ADHD diagnosis may benefit from utilizing community resources such as counseling services offered through schools or mental health clinics; online support groups where people can connect with others who understand what they are going through; local support groups organized by non-profit organizations like CHADD (Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder); recreational programs designed specifically for people with special needs; specialized camps designed for those with developmental delays including those related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or ADD/ADHD.
What Are The Potential Benefits Of Receiving An ADHD Diagnosis?
Although it can be difficult for some individuals to come to terms with having an official diagnosis of ADHD, it can also open up opportunities for receiving helpful supports such as access to educational accommodations under the ADA or specific types of therapy geared towards addressing underlying issues associated with the condition like anxiety or depression. Furthermore, many people feel relieved upon finally receiving an accurate diagnosis because it helps explain why certain challenges have arisen throughout their lives despite engaging in various types of interventions prior to this point.
Conclusion
To conclude, although there is still debate surrounding whether or not ADHD should be classified as a disability according to the ADA guidelines, there is no denying that this condition often presents unique challenges that interfere with daily functioning which may warrant special considerations through legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Furthermore, those who have been officially diagnosed with this condition may find comfort knowing that there are various types of supports available which could potentially improve their overall quality of life if utilized effectively.
