ADHD is often misunderstood, especially when it comes to its impact on adults in the workplace. For many, ADHD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, organization, emotional regulation, and impulse control. While it is commonly diagnosed in childhood, countless adults go undiagnosed for years, only realizing later in life that their ongoing workplace struggles—missed deadlines, difficulty focusing, or trouble with organization—are rooted in this condition.

If you have been denied long-term disability (LTD) benefits because of ADHD or related symptoms, you are not alone. At Mulqueen Disability Law, we understand the unique challenges you face, and we are committed to helping you fight for the benefits you deserve.

Understanding ADHD and Its Impact on Employment

ADHD is a chronic, lifelong medical condition. Its symptoms do not simply disappear with age; in fact, many adults continue to struggle with inattention, impulsivity, restlessness, and disorganization well into their professional lives. These symptoms can have a profound impact on an individualʼs ability to meet workplace expectations.

For example, adults with ADHD may find it challenging to organize tasks, prioritize responsibilities, or meet deadlines. They may struggle to sustain attention on tasks, especially those that are not inherently interesting, and may act on impulse or make hasty decisions without fully considering the consequences.

For many adults, especially women, ADHD symptoms are frequently mislabelled as anxiety, depression, or a lack of motivation. This misunderstanding can lead to years of frustration, self-doubt, and even job loss. The reality is that these challenges are not a reflection of your work ethic or intelligence; they are the result of a neurodevelopmental condition that requires proper recognition and support.

The Unique Challenges of Late-Diagnosed ADHD

The impact of a late diagnosis can be profound. Many adults with ADHD have spent years developing coping mechanisms to mask their symptoms. These strategies—such as working long hours to compensate for poor time management or hyper-focusing on specific tasks—can be draining and unsustainable in the long term. When the underlying condition is finally identified, it can bring relief and validation, but also a sense of loss for the years spent struggling without proper support.

Workplace Struggles and Stigma

In the workplace, undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can affect job performance, relationships with colleagues, and overall career satisfaction. Many adults with ADHD have faced years of being misunderstood, often branded as lazy, unmotivated, or careless. Even after receiving a diagnosis, stigma can persist. Co-workers and managers may continue to view an individual through the lens of their previous behaviors, leading to misconceptions about their capabilities or potential.

The workplace itself can present unique challenges for individuals with ADHD. Rigid schedules, lengthy meetings, and repetitive administrative tasks can be particularly difficult to manage. Communication and collaboration may also be affected, as impulsivity might lead to interrupting others during meetings, and disorganization can result in missed emails or forgotten appointments. These challenges can strain relationships with colleagues and make it harder to thrive in collaborative environments.

The Reality of Denials for ADHD

Insurance companies frequently deny LTD claims for ADHD, often arguing that the condition is not severe enough to prevent you from working or that your symptoms are not “objectively” measurable. They may suggest that with proper treatment, you should be able to function in the workplace.

However, these assumptions ignore the reality of living with ADHD—especially when symptoms persist despite treatment, or when co-existing conditions like Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), anxiety, or depression further complicate your ability to work.

Common reasons for LTD denial include:

• A lack of formal diagnosis or comprehensive medical documentation
• Misunderstanding of how ADHD impacts your ability to perform your job duties
• Failure to recognize the cumulative effect of symptoms like poor time management, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation

Stereotypes that ADHD is simply a matter of willpower or discipline continue to influence decisions, leaving many deserving individuals without the support they need.

The Emotional Toll of Denial

Being denied LTD benefits can be devastating, both financially and emotionally. Many adults with ADHD have already faced years of misunderstanding and self-doubt. A denial can reinforce feelings of worthlessness or shame, especially for those who have worked hard to mask their symptoms and meet workplace expectations.

The constant effort to compensate for ADHD can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and, ultimately, an inability to maintain employment.

Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) is a condition linked to ADHD that involves intense emotional sensitivity triggered by perceived or actual rejection, criticism, or judgment. For individuals with RSD, a denial of LTD benefits can feel like a deeply personal rejection, compounding the emotional burden and making it even harder to advocate for oneself.

How Mulqueen Disability Law Can Help

If your LTD claim has been denied, you need an advocate who understands both the medical and legal aspects of ADHD. At Mulqueen Disability Law, we have helped many clients with ADHD and related conditions navigate the appeals process and secure the benefits they need.

We know how to gather and present the right medical evidence, including detailed reports from treating professionals, and explain the real-world impact of ADHD on your work performance—beyond whatʼs in your medical file.

Our team is skilled at addressing insurance company misconceptions and challenging unfair denials. We understand the nuances of ADHD and how it can affect every aspect of your professional life. We are committed to advocating for your rights every step of the way, ensuring that your voice is heard and your condition is properly understood.

Building a Strong LTD Appeal

A successful LTD appeal for ADHD requires comprehensive documentation and a clear explanation of how your symptoms prevent you from performing your job duties. This may include:

• Detailed medical records and diagnostic reports from qualified professionals
• Statements from treating physicians that describe your symptoms, treatment history, and functional limitations
• Evidence of how ADHD symptoms manifest in your daily work life, such as difficulty meeting deadlines, problems with organization, or challenges with communication
• Documentation of any co-existing conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or RSD, that may exacerbate your symptoms
• Testimonies from colleagues or supervisors who can speak to the impact of your symptoms on your job performance

At Mulqueen Disability Law, we work closely with you and your healthcare providers to ensure that your appeal is as strong as possible. We understand the importance of presenting a comprehensive picture of your condition and its impact on your ability to work.

The Importance of Advocacy and Support

Navigating the LTD appeals process can be overwhelming, especially when you are already struggling with the challenges of ADHD. Having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can make all the difference.

Our team is dedicated to supporting you throughout the process, from gathering evidence to representing you in communications with the insurance company.

We believe that everyone deserves fair and compassionate treatment, and we are committed to fighting for your rights. If you are feeling isolated or discouraged, know that you are not alone. Many adults with ADHD have faced similar challenges, and with the right support, it is possible to secure the benefits you need to focus on your health and well-being.

Embracing Strengths: The Positive Side of ADHD

While the challenges of late-diagnosed ADHD in the workplace are real, it is essential to acknowledge the strengths and unique qualities that individuals with ADHD bring to the table.

Many people with ADHD are highly creative, innovative, and adaptable. They often excel in dynamic, fast-paced environments and are skilled problem-solvers who think outside the box. Hyperfocus, a phenomenon where individuals become deeply engrossed in a task, can lead to high productivity and exceptional results when channeled effectively.

Employers who recognize and leverage these strengths can create more inclusive and supportive workplaces. However, it is equally important for individuals with ADHD to receive the accommodations and support they need to thrive.

Creating a Supportive Work Environment

For employees with late-diagnosed ADHD, the workplace can be both a challenge and an opportunity. Employers and employees alike have a role to play in fostering a supportive, inclusive environment.

Strategies such as education and awareness, flexible work arrangements, clear communication, and the use of ADHD-friendly tools can make a significant difference in productivity and job satisfaction.

However, when these supports are not enough, and your symptoms prevent you from maintaining employment, LTD benefits are a critical safety net. If your claim is denied, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Moving Forward: Your Next Steps

If you are struggling to keep your job due to ADHD, or if your LTD claim has been denied, do not lose hope. The process can be daunting, but with the right guidance and support, you can fight for the benefits you deserve.

At Mulqueen Disability Law, we understand what you are going through, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Our experience with ADHD-related disability claims means we know how to navigate the system and advocate effectively on your behalf. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your condition is properly recognized and that you receive the support you need to move forward.

Contact us for a Free Consultation

The stress of managing ADHD in the workplace is hard enough without having to fight for the benefits you are entitled to. If you need help with your LTD claim, or if you have been denied benefits, contact Mulqueen Disability Law. We are committed to helping you secure the support you need to focus on your health and your future. 

Mulqueen Disability Law specializes in hard-to-prove long-term disability claims for “Invisible Conditions” such as mental illness (depression, anxiety, PTSD) and chronic conditions (pain, neurological, immunological, concussion, post-COVID)  Contact us for a free confidential consultation.

Mulqueen Disability Law is a boutique law firm, focused on litigating long-term disability insurance benefit claims. Courtney Mulqueen and her team of legal professionals are Trauma-Informed Certified and have over two decades of experience exclusively in the area of long-term disability law. She and her team draw on their “insider” experience working for the insurance companies (including, Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, and OTIP), that they now sue for their clients.  

The preceding is not intended to be legal advice. This blog is made available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog, you understand that there is no solicitor client relationship between you and the blog publisher. The blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed lawyer in your jurisdiction. If your disability claim has been denied and you require legal advice, please contact a lawyer specializing in disability law.