Attention deficit problems are generally considered in the context of how they relate to children. And this is true even in how the social security administration approaches attention deficit (the disability impairment manual has a specific listing in the children's section for ADHD).
However, an adult diagnosed with attention problems (ADD/ADHD) may potentially be entitled to receive Social Security disability or disability benefits from SSI as well.
Children's cases and adult cases are essentially examined and processed in the same manner. Like all individuals applying for Social Security disability, adults with attention problems have to receive a medical determination, which will review the individual's attention problems, medical history, and current limitations as to the individual's functionality.
If an individual with attention problems has not been able to engage in work above the monthly substantial gainful work activity limit for the past twelve months or expects not to be able to engage in substantial gainful activity for twelve months due to attention problems, there is a possibility of Social Security disability entitlement.
More on Adult ADHD & SSDI or SSI Claims
Adult attention deficit disorder is a mental impairment that is characterized by inattentiveness, difficulty getting work done, procrastination, and difficulty with organization. The estimates are that approximately two to four percent of adults have adult attention deficit disorder. Studies also state that half of all children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) will have persistent attention deficit problems in their adulthood. The diagnosis of adult attention deficit depends on the level of restriction in an individual. Different criterions are used to diagnose the condition such as maturity and behavior. Often adult attention deficit sufferers develop their own coping skills and adaptive behavior.
Adults and children with attention deficit disorder have the same diagnostic criteria with the exception that the history of an adult with attention deficit must include verification that certain symptomology was present in childhood. Also, the diagnosis must rule other causes for the symptoms. Adult attention deficit disorder is treated with the same types of medicine used for children who have attention deficit problems.
Can you win social security disability or SSI disability benefits on the basis of adult attention deficit disorder?
Answer: The Social Security Administration's disability evaluation system does not focus on a claimant's diagnosis, but, rather, on the functional limitations a claimant has. In other words, the name of the condition is not the chief consideration. How the condition "affects and limits: the indiviual is the primary concern. So, yes, disability benefits can be won on the basis of nearly any condition provided that the condition is sufficiently limiting.
