ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that affects approximately 5% of all American children. Children whose ADHD symptoms reach a certain intensity level are likely to qualify for benefits. However, you will be required to provide solid medical evidence about the severity of your child’s symptoms.
Symptoms of ADHD typically begin in childhood, and can continue well into adulthood. Primary symptoms include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. A child who suffers from ADHD is likely to face problems adjusting in school, and keeping up with work in adulthood.
You must provide the following types of evidence in support of your claim.
• Notes from your doctor, outlining the kind of treatment that your child has received, including the medications that he/she is taking • Results of IQ testing and achievement tests • Findings from a psychologist, psychiatrist or any other mental health professional • Input from teachers in the form of evaluations
These are the minimum medical evidence requirements for children between the ages of three and 18. If your child is below three years of age, his/her claim has a very minor chance of approval. Broadly, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will consider the child’s level of social and personal functioning, communication abilities, cognitive functions, and ability to focus on or concentrate on tasks.
It can be difficult to get your child’s benefits claim for ADHD approved. However, input from teachers and school staff, including evaluations of the way he/she performs in school can influence your child’s claim as can the help of a skilled Atlanta Social Security disability attorney.