ADHD and Long-Term Disability Benefits in Canada

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. According to the Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada, ADHD affects 4-6% of adults, and 5-7% of children, or approximately 1.8 million Canadians. While ADHD can present unique challenges in various aspects of life, including employment, individuals with ADHD may be eligible for long-term disability (LTD) benefits to support their financial needs. For those navigating the process, it can be complex, but doesn’t need to be.

Understanding ADHD

ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can significantly impact daily functioning and productivity. It can manifest as difficulty staying focused, or an inability to break one’s focus, depending on whether the information is interesting or not to the individual. There are three main ways that ADHD is classified:

Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD

This classification can arise in the form of interrupting others, making impulsive decisions, or having difficulty waiting.

Inattentive ADHD

Conversely, inattentive ADHD finds individuals having difficulty regulating their attention, which can create a barrier at work, in education, personal relationships, and everyday functions.

Combined ADHD

Exactly as it sounds. Individuals with combined ADHD must navigate both the urgency of impulsivity, with the challenge of inattentive attention.

While ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, it can persist into adulthood, affecting individuals in the workplace and other settings.

Individuals with ADHD may also suffer from other mental conditions, such as:

Anxiety

The symptoms of ADHD, such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, can contribute to feelings of anxiety, especially in situations requiring focus or performance. Conversely, chronic anxiety can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, leading to difficulties in concentration and self-regulation.

Behaviour disorders

Behaviour or conduct disorders can be a response to frustration stemming from ADHD-related challenges like impulsivity and difficulty maintaining organization. Diagnosis and management of ADHD can help mitigate these issues.

Depression

The chronic stress of coping with ADHD-related difficulties, such as work challenges, social interactions, and self-esteem, can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. Studies also show that the neurotransmitter imbalances implicated in ADHD may also play a role in the development of mood disorders like depression. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association says that adults with ADHD are three times more likely to experience depression than adults without.

Learning Disabilities

It’s not uncommon for ADHD to coexist with other learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and language processing disorders. The combination of ADHD and learning disabilities can present unique challenges in work settings, requiring specific interventions to address these needs.

ADHD and Long-Term Disability Benefits

For individuals with ADHD whose symptoms impair their ability to perform essential job duties, LTD benefits may provide crucial financial support. However, eligibility for LTD benefits for ADHD can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and their impact on work performance. Insurance policies may require thorough documentation of ADHD diagnosis, treatment history, and functional impairments to qualify for benefits.

Canadians living with ADHD may also be eligible for government support through the Disability Tax Credit.

ADHD Disability Benefits

When applying for LTD benefits related to ADHD, it’s essential to provide comprehensive medical evidence supporting your diagnosis and functional limitations. This may include documentation from healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or neuropsychologists, as well as treatment records and assessments of work-related impairments. Demonstrating the impact of ADHD on your ability to perform job duties is key to securing disability benefits.

Can My ADHD Disability Benefits for ADHD Be Denied?

Unfortunately, disability benefits for ADHD may be denied by insurance providers for various reasons. Common grounds for denial include insufficient medical evidence, failure to meet eligibility criteria, and policy exclusions related to mental health conditions. Insurance companies may also argue that ADHD-related impairments do not meet the definition of “total disability” under the policy.

What to Do If Your ADHD Benefits Have Been Denied

If your LTD benefits for ADHD have been denied, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights. Begin by carefully reviewing the denial letter to understand the reasons for the denial. If the insurance company hasn’t provided their notice in writing, make sure they provide you with a denial letter. Then, gather additional medical evidence, treatment records, and expert opinions to strengthen your claim. Does your physician or specialist agree with the insurance company’s decision? If they disagree, it’s important to ask them for their reasoning in writing. Consider filing an appeal with the assistance of a long-term disability lawyer who specializes in ADHD cases.

Why You Should Contact Our Long-Term Disability Lawyers for Help

Navigating the appeals process for denied ADHD benefits can be complex and challenging, adding extra stress to your life in an already stressful world. A disability lawyer can provide invaluable assistance by advocating for your rights, help you gather supporting evidence, and represent you in appeals hearings. By partnering with an ADHD attorney, you can potentially have the denial overturned and finally access the benefits you deserve.

Living with ADHD presents unique challenges, but individuals facing these challenges should know that support is available. Long-term disability benefits can provide essential financial assistance for those whose ADHD symptoms impair their ability to work. If your ADHD benefits have been denied, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance from one of our long-term disability lawyers who can help you navigate the appeals process and fight your denial. Book your free consultation today.