Proper Diagnosis and The Disability Tax Credit: Key Weapons in the Fight Against Adult ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a vexing, often misunderstood and apparently (according to recent studies) far more common condition than anyone imagined just a few years ago. In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week huffingtonpost.com has posted an article by psychiatrist Welansa Asrat chronicling the high cost of allowing ADHD to go undiagnosed and the often devastating effects a non-diagnosis can have on adults with the condition.
Adults with ADHD are labeled as ‘lazy,’ even though they tend to be highly creative and gifted people. Their lack of productivity and their impulsive behaviors often damage their relationships and self-esteem, which can negatively impact the overall trajectory of their lives.
Sadly most adults with ADHD will live out their lives without ever being aware of the true cause of their difficulties. Some, however, will take their concerns to a health professional, although as doctor Asrat notes:
By the time an adult makes an appointment to see a mental health practitioner, he/she is often on the verge of losing a scholarship, a relationship or a job. Both the behavioral modifications and the medications provide some relief… Though the medications have a number of potential side-effects including jitteriness, increased anxiety and decreased appetite.
Of the majority who never receive a diagnosis or the assistance that could help turn their lives around little can be conclusively said. It’s likely many of society’s so-called ‘losers’ – people who for mysterious reasons never realized their potential – are undiagnosed ADHD sufferers. But what about the rest? Those who’ve found their way to the doctor and had their condition finally, accurately diagnosed? Do they go on to have ‘normal’ productive lives?
It would be wonderful to be able to answer “yes” to that question but as Dr Asrat suggest treating adult ADHD is less an event and more an ongoing process. Even if you’ve been properly diagnosed and are actively engaged in treatment the battle against ADHD may continue on a diminished but nonetheless real level with bouts of confusion, distraction and negativity that can occasionally overwhelm.
Such incidents can negatively impact career prospects and therefore earning potential. When combined with the cost of therapies, doctor visits and medications the financial damage then, can often be the most visible effect of the disorder. For such individuals, suffering under the weight of their ADHD, the Disability Tax Credit is often the last line of defense.
Disability Tax Credit Stemming the Tide of Punishing Medical Expenses
In 2005 (the last year for which reliable numbers are available ) the CDC estimated that ADHD costs an individual more than $17,000 per year. In 2015 dollars that’s nearly $21,000. That’s a staggering amount for any individual and for those whose income generation has already been compromised by ADHD it can essentially pull the rug out from under their entire life.
The Disability Tax Credit was created to prevent that happening. This important initiative offers up to $40,000 in annual relief for individuals and families overwhelmed by medical bills associated with ADHD and other disabilities. Since its inception it has won widespread praise from many in the disability community yet others are quick to draw attention to the confusing and convoluted application and approval process. As a result they say, many eligible citizens have simply given up trying to apply and remain outside the bounds of a program created to help them.
When you enlist Disability Credit Canada to advocate for you, you increase your chances of being approved for the Disability Tax Credit. We fight tirelessly on behalf of our disabled clients and are never intimidated by red tape. Our benefits professionals are experienced in all aspects of the application process and will stand by your side right through final approval. You should also keep in mind that you may be eligible for up to 10 years of retroactive benefits.
Don’t spend another moment dreading the arrival of the post. Call Disability Credit Canada on 1-855-765-4458 and let us help you secure the maximum benefits you’re entitled to under the Disability Tax Credit. We’ve helped scores of others restore a sense of normalcy to their lives, we can help you too.