Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can have a profound impact on your daily life, especially if it developed or worsened during your time in service.
If you’re a veteran living with ADHD, you may be wondering if you’re eligible for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
So, can you claim ADHD as a VA disability? It’s possible, but you must prove that your ADHD was either caused or worsened by your military service.
The VA claims process can be stressful, especially if you’re dealing with a mental health condition. A Veterans Affairs Disability benefits claims lawyer can guide you through the process and help you achieve a positive outcome.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Can I Claim ADHD as a VA Disability?
In most cases, you cannot claim ADHD as a VA disability. The VA usually doesn’t award compensation for it because it’s considered a developmental disorder rather than one that arises after military service.
However, if you can prove that your ADHD was caused or aggravated by your military service, you may be eligible for benefits.
For example, if combat-related trauma or another service-connected mental health condition caused or worsened your ADHD, the VA might recognize it as secondarily service-connected.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 562-9830
How Hard Is It to Get Disability for ADHD?
Getting VA Disability benefits for ADHD can be challenging due to the agency’s classification of ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder (meaning one that develops before adulthood).
The VA often uses this to deny claims on the basis that the condition is pre-existing and not caused by military service.
To be successful, you must prove one of the following:
- Your ADHD was not diagnosed before service, and symptoms first appeared during or after military service.
- Your ADHD was exacerbated by service, meaning the symptoms significantly worsened during active duty.
- Your ADHD is secondary to another service-connected condition, such as anxiety, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or PTSD.
Supporting medical evidence, a diagnosis from a licensed provider, and a nexus letter from a mental health professional can significantly improve your chances.
Does the VA Give a Disability Rating for ADHD?
The VA doesn’t provide a disability rating specifically for ADHD. However, if they accept your ADHD as service-connected, you can still receive compensation based on how much the condition affects your daily functioning and occupational abilities.
The VA evaluates mental disorders based on symptoms like:
- Difficulty with concentration and memory
- Poor impulse control
- Occupational and social impairment
- Mood instability and anxiety
- Inability to maintain effective relationships or employment
Can I Get VA Disability for Any Other Mental Health Conditions?
Yes. Even if your claim for ADHD is denied, you may still qualify for VA Disability for other mental health conditions. Veterans are frequently approved for conditions like:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Traumatic brain injury-related cognitive impairments
Many veterans with ADHD also suffer from co-occurring conditions. If those conditions are linked to your military service, they may be easier to prove than ADHD alone.
What if My Application for VA Disability Is Denied?
If your ADHD claim gets denied, you still have options. Veterans can appeal denied VA Disability claims through the following three channels:
- Higher-level review
- Supplemental claim
- Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA)
When appealing, some paths permit you to submit additional documentation, such as private medical opinions, updated medical records, or lay statements from family, friends, or coworkers. However, other appeals processes do not allow you to add evidence.
Appealing a VA decision can be time-consuming, but working with a VA Disability lawyer can help you get the benefits you deserve.
Why Hire a VA Disability Attorney?
Navigating the VA claims process can be difficult, especially when it comes to mental health claims. A VA Disability attorney can provide crucial assistance by:
- Gathering evidence to strengthen your claim
- Drafting legal arguments that support a service connection
- Securing expert medical opinions or nexus letters
- Representing you at appeals and hearings
An experienced attorney will understand how the VA evaluates mental health conditions and help you frame your claim to meet the agency’s criteria.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulsivity, and executive function. While it’s typically diagnosed early in life, symptoms can be triggered or intensified by trauma, stress, or brain injury, which veterans often experience during military service.
What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
Veterans with ADHD may experience symptoms that interfere with both civilian employment and personal relationships. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty staying focused on tasks
- Forgetting appointments or obligations
- Trouble following instructions
- Restlessness or inability to sit still
- Interrupting others during conversations
- Disorganization and poor time management
- Mood swings or irritability
- Low frustration tolerance
If these symptoms have become more severe since your time in the military, they may be grounds for a claim or secondary service connection.
Contact a Veterans Disability Lawyer
If you’re a veteran struggling to obtain benefits for a mental health condition, you don’t have to deal with the VA alone. A VA Disability lawyer from Marc Whitehead & Associates can help you build a compelling case and secure the compensation you’ve earned.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss how you can win your claim.