Usually seen, the central issue with ADHD diagnoses arises from the multitudinous range of symptoms it can come along with.
A frequently asked query of people is “Is ADHD an intellectual disability?”
Even though sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably by mistake, ADHD and intellectual disabilities are two different conditions.
Therefore, it is important to get more information on these differences to achieve the most effective treatment and support.
Let’s get into more detail below.
What Exactly Is ADHD?
ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder, is a manifestation of a severe deficit in a person’s ability to sustain focus and self-control impulsivity.
The most frequent signs can be:
- Inattention.
- Restlessness
- Impulsitivity.
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 7 million children in the United States get affected by ADHD.
The condition is likely to continue into the adult life as well.
What Is an Intellectual Disability?
An intellectual disability is a mental condition that refers to the lack of intellectual functioning and skills in managing daily activities.
These usually limit day-to-day life activities such as communication, learning, and social skills.
Intellectual disabilities are usually measured with the help of IQ scores that are below 70-75 and are classified as mild or profound.
Some of the characteristics of profound mental disability are as follows:
- Limitations in communication.
- Physical mobility.
- Self-care.
Is ADHD an Intellectual Disability?
No, ADHD does not come under the intellectual disability category.
ADHD mostly affects executive functioning, including planning, organizing, and focusing.
Intellectual disabilities cause damage to the overall cognitive abilities.
How Is ADHD Different from an Intellectual Disability?
ADHD and intellectual disabilities have some common symptoms such as behavior regulation, and school performance, but they are different from each other at a fundamental level.
ADHD does not necessarily mean that a person has an intellectual disorder.
People suffering from ADHD usually have a regular or sometimes even higher than normal IQ while those with intellectual disability are those who have low intelligence symptoms and cognitive impairments that limit their intellectual function.
ADHD and intellectual disabilities also have the possibility of occurring together.
For instance, some children, due to intellectual disabilities, may exhibit inattentive and hyperactive behaviors that are rather similar to those of ADHD.
It is, therefore, necessary to get the diagnosis in advance—including intellectual disability treatments or ADHD-specific therapies.
Dispelling Misconceptions About ADHD and Intellectual Disabilities
- ADHD as a Learning Disability: Even though ADHD can sometimes be the reason a person can’t get proper grades, this is not a learning disability. This is because the ones might not be concentrating, busy, or cannot keep up with their work but deep inside they suffer from hyperfocus even if they are unaware of it.
- ADHD and Intelligence: People with ADHD can be the best they can be because despite symptoms like difficulty focusing, and inability to follow through with a task, which could result in underestimation, they still have their bright intellect.
Signs of Intellectual Disability
Here are some signs of intellectual disability:
- Delayed developmental milestones—this could be walking or talking.
- Having difficulty in reasoning or problem-solving—these are common low IQ symptoms.
- Challenging them to learn new skills or adapt to new social environments.
When evaluating the child’s behavior, it is important to discriminate these traits as they are different from ADHD symptoms, hence, they require support.
Treatments for ADHD and Intellectual Disabilities
In the case of ADHD, medication, and behavioral therapies are applied.
However, education, life skills training, and targeted therapies to increase adaptive functioning are the methods used for intellectual disability treatments.
There isn’t a single cure for intellectual disability.
As a matter of reality, it is a lifelong condition.
Nevertheless, the earlier the treatment begins, the better the results will be.
With ADHD, it is a lifelong condition but its symptoms can be effectively managed using treatment.
Getting Professional Help and Support
If you or your child are facing difficulty with ADHD or intellectual disabilities, then getting help from a specialist is highly recommended.
Very accurate diagnostics are an obligatory part of the formation of a specially prepared plan to target the person’s individual needs and demands.
Your Next Steps
Awareness of the specificities of ADHD and intellectual disabilities will empower you to better approach the care needed.
In case of any questions about your diagnosis or issues you have been experiencing, we will be there to give you personalized support.
Contact Envision Psychiatry to get all the information you need about treatment options and receive a detailed plan for your problems.
FAQ Section
Is ADHD a form of intellectual disability?
No, ADHD is not a form of intellectual disability, it is a neurodevelopmental disorder that mainly causes inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
Signs of intellectual disability are different.
Is ADHD related to intellectual ability?
ADHD does not make a person less intelligent by itself.
However, the distortions caused by the symptoms of ADHD may hamper the academic or professional life of a person without proper management.
Is ADHD a mental illness?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disease rather than a mental one. It is a condition that is distinct from, e.g., depression or anxiety, although it can co-exist with them.
What disability does ADHD fall under?
In relation to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, ADHD is a disability considered in the “Other Health Impairment” category and this makes the students eligible for particular educational adjustments.
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