Social Security Disability for Children With ADHD

A child afflicted with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. In addition to a medical diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), severe impairment of function as a result of the condition must be proven in order to classify the child as disabled. Disabled children whose household qualifies under the income limits may receive Social Security benefits.

Identifying ADHD

• ADHD is classified by three types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or a combination. Children with inattentive type ADHD may be easily distracted, forgetful, unorganized, unable to listen, follow directions or to complete tasks. Children with hyperactive-impulsive type are fidgety and restless, unable to sit quietly, jump around and climb inappropriately on furniture, interrupt others frequently or speak out of turn in class and display a quick temper. Combination type ADHD includes any combination of both the inattention and hyperactive aspects of the condition.

Diagnosing ADHD

• A parent who suspects their child has ADHD should consult with the child's school teacher or counselor to find out if behaviors are present outside of the home as well. The diagnostic criteria requires that the child displays symptoms in two or more different environments for at least six months. Parents should take note of the frequency of any observed behaviors. This information will be used by the family physician in determining the presence, degree and type of ADHD. The physician should perform a complete physical examination of the child to rule out the existence of other possible causes of behaviors, such as vision or hearing problems, hypothyroidism or iron deficiency.

Treatment of ADHD

• ADHD may be efficiently controlled through the use of stimulant medications. Omega 3 fish oil, a vitamin supplement, has also been shown to help decrease symptoms in ADHD children. Behavior modification techniques may be employed to reduce dysfunction associated with ADHD. Parents can apply behavior techniques including limiting environmental factors that over-stimulate the child, issuing clear and concise instructions, offering incentives for good behavior, and using consistent and appropriate discipline such as time outs for unwanted behaviors.

Requirements for Social Security Disability

• According to the Social Security Administration, a child who "suffers from a medically determinable physical or mental impairment or impairments which result in marked and severe functional limitations" is considered disabled and may qualify for Social Security disability. Children with ADHD who continue to suffer from limited function even after treatment may fall under these guidelines. To qualify for Social Security disability, the income of the household in which the child resides must fall under the maximum income as determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Applying for Social Security Disability

• To apply for Social Security disability benefits for a child, an application must be completed through the Social Security office either in person or by phone. A Child Disability Report is available online and serves as a guide of information required to make a determination of benefits. Required information includes the child's medical history and treatment, as well as household information such as income, household size and social security numbers of all family members. Upon receipt of the completed application and Child Disability Report, the SSA will request supporting documentation from the appropriate sources. This information is used to determine eligibility for benefits. Applicants will receive the Social Security Office's decision by mail. If benefits have been denied, the reason for denial is listed along with instructions for appeal.