Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition. Due to structural brain differences between someone with ADHD and someone without the condition, ADHD does not simply “go away.”
Instead, many people learn to manage their symptoms, sometimes so well that they no longer notice their symptoms at all. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, ADHD management may require a long-term plan relying on a comprehensive care team, therapy, or medication.
In this article, Ability Central outlines some of the support options available to people with ADHD. We answer questions like:
Is ADHD covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
What government programs assist people with ADHD?
Where can I learn more about insurance options and medication assistance for ADHD?
What medications are used to treat ADHD in adults?
What can I do to help my ADHD symptoms beyond medication?
Where can I connect with an adult ADHD support group?
Where can I find more information about ADHD?
Is ADHD covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
Rather than covering specific conditions, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) offers protections for people who have disabilities. The ADA defines a person with a disability as someone who:
has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more "major life activities,"
has a record of such an impairment, or
is regarded as having such an impairment.
If ADHD has caused debilitating limitations to you or a loved one, you might qualify for accommodations at work or school. Much of managing ADHD involves making daily tasks easier and limiting the impact of ADHD symptoms on performance and personal relationships.
The Job Accommodations Network (JAN) offers recommendations, resources, and guides for requesting ADA accommodations at school or in the workplace. Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) also offers resources about ADHD treatment and long-term ADHD support options. When in doubt, contact a CHADD or JAN adviser, or speak with an employment lawyer to learn more about your anti-discrimination rights.
If you believe you have been discriminated against and would like help, see the Ability Central services database to connect with a nonprofit specializing in neurodiverse conditions like ADHD. Many community organizations offer connections to legal and financial services surrounding fair treatment at school and in the workplace.
What government programs assist people with ADHD?
If you do not have private insurance or your insurance doesn’t cover the cost of ADHD care in full, there are other funding options for ADHD management.
If you live in the United States, federal and state governments offer programs that can offset the cost of medications, therapy, or other treatments. Contact a local representative to find out if you qualify for one of these government-sponsored options:
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) offers private insurance plans to people who may not have coverage due to low income or other situations. Under the ACA, people with ADHD have access to physical and mental healthcare, including medication management, therapy, substance abuse treatment, and more.
Medicare covers people with permanent disabilities and those 65 years old or older. Medicare part B may help with the cost of outpatient services like ADHD testing, therapy, and medication management. Contact your local Medicare representative to find out if you qualify.
Medicaid covers people with disabilities who have lower incomes. Under Medicaid, people with ADHD may qualify for financial assistance related to ADHD care and medication, although some states have unique rules for ADHD medication for children. Contact your local representative for more information.
Medigap insurance supplements someone’s Medicare coverage. Depending on your Medicare coverage, Medicap can help cover all associated costs except the annual Part B deductible and Medigap premium payments.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal benefit program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It provides monthly payments to blind or disabled people at least 65 years old, and is reserved for people with severe, chronic conditions and significant financial need. Having ADHD is not an automatic qualification for SSI, but a documented diagnosis can be helpful if the condition and the impairments are severe enough. For more information, see the SSA website.
Veteran’s Affairs (VA) provides health care benefits for veterans who have actively served in the military. While the VA doesn’t have a specific disability rating for ADHD, veterans with ADHD may qualify for coverage of co-existing conditions like depression, anxiety, or mood disorders, particularly if those conditions appear alongside or because of [post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Where can I learn more about insurance options and medication assistance for ADHD?
Depending on your age, income level, and severity of disability, there are many options available for both primary and secondary insurance. Some options cover physician care, while others cover medication. To see a complete list of options, check out CHADD’s database of Insurance and Public Benefits.
What medications are used to treat ADHD in adults?
The three types of medications most commonly used to treat ADHD are:
Stimulants. These medicines help 70% to 80% of people with ADHD focus their thoughts and ignore distractions.
Non-stimulants. These medications can improve symptoms like concentration and impulse control.
Antidepressants. These medications help control co-existing conditions, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Some people with ADHD manage their symptoms without medication, while others rely on a mix of all three medications to improve their symptoms. Talk to your doctor to find out what works best for your symptoms.
To learn more about ADHD treatment, see Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): What Happens After an ADHD Diagnosis?
What can I do to help my ADHD symptoms beyond medication?
Medication is not the only treatment for ADHD. Children and adults can benefit from alternative ADHD treatments like coaching or mindfulness practices. The effectiveness of these treatments depends on your unique symptoms, lifestyle, and budget.
For example, some adults with ADHD benefit from weekly sessions with a therapist or ADHD coach, while people who don’t have the time or money for talk sessions may benefit from a personal yoga or meditation practice.
Alternative ADHD treatments include:
ADHD coaching. ADHD coaches provide a safe space for people with ADHD to discuss their symptoms, ask questions, and explore real solutions to their day-to-day struggles. An ADHD coach is not a therapist. Instead, an ADHD coach creates a non-judgmental partnership with you to work out goals, manage emotions, create strategies for organization and task management, and improve relationships.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is often an effective treatment for ADHD because it helps eliminate the negativity and harmful self-talk that can accompany ADHD symptoms. Many people with ADHD struggle with self-esteem. They compare themselves to friends, family members, and colleagues, and beat themselves up for not performing as well. CBT helps people with ADHD practice self-care and change patterns of negative self-thinking. For example, “I always miss my deadlines because I’m lazy and forgetful” becomes “I can meet my deadlines when I create a good organization system because I’m dedicated and know how to work with my ADHD symptoms.”
Supplements. Many people with ADHD benefit from supplemental vitamins and minerals like zinc, vitamin D, and iron. In particular, Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in tuna or salmon, have shown promising links between people with ADHD and improved brain function. Make sure to talk to your doctor before starting any supplements, especially if you take other medications to manage your ADHD. Some supplements can make other medications less effective.
Acupuncture. This ancient practice uses hair-thin needles to stimulate pressure points throughout the body, restoring energy flow and clearing blockages. Many people with ADHD sing the praises of acupuncture, especially when combined with their usual treatment.
Yoga. The meditative and spiritual aspects of yoga can help people with ADHD feel more connected with their bodies.
Meditation. Like yoga, meditation helps people with ADHD find calm in a constantly busy brain. Living a more mindful life helps people with ADHD improve their attention spans, feel more self-aware, and reduce stress.
Time and task management apps. Many people with ADHD benefit from planning apps, like apps used for budgeting, task management, time management, and goal tracking. Other apps gamify practices that alleviate ADHD symptoms.
Where can I connect with an adult ADHD support group?
ADHD support groups are a great way to connect with other adults who have ADHD or parents of children with ADHD. Support groups can help you:
Understand your experiences
Share advice and insights
Get perspective on challenges
Spend time with people who understand what you’re going through
Many doctors’ offices, hospital networks, and schools keep updated lists of local ADHD support groups. In addition, you can find online and in-person support groups through:
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
ADDitude, particularly their Facebook group
Where can I find more information about ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a complex diagnosis that requires careful research, education, and treatment. Regular visits with doctors, pediatricians, therapists, and psychiatrists can help both children and adults seek a diagnosis and manage their ADHD symptoms.
To learn more about ADHD, see:
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): 8 Facts You Might Not Know
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Symptoms in Children and Adults
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): What Happens After an ADHD Diagnosis?
To learn more about conditions related to ADHD, see:
