Section 504 in the rehabilitation act of the Americans with Disabilities Act classifies addiction from drug and substance abuse as a disability. However, the show is clear that not every addiction case is a disability. Until the relevant authorities and medical practitioners prove that the addiction problem has caused severe impairments, it cannot be treated as a disability.
The belief that only illicit drugs can cause addiction and later lead to disability is not valid. Many people have developed disabilities after becoming over-reliant on prescription drugs given in a treatment facility.
In this article, we’ll explore various reasons that can make your addiction problem get classified as a disability in the US.
How Drug Addiction Causes Disability
Dependency on illegal drugs and substances for a long time predisposes you to chronic conditions that might render you disabled. When you can’t perform your day-to-day tasks generally due to the effects of alcohol or other drugs, you’re slowly becoming disabled.
The ADA has several laws that determine disability cases from addiction victims. Common impairments that result from prolonged drug abuse include;
- Irreversible nerve damage
- Cirrhosis
- Mental health problems, including depression
- Physical injuries arising from drunken driving and falls
- Brain and organ damage
Any impairment that interferes with your routine is likely to become a disability. Whether you’re still undergoing medication or the impairment has been declared a permanent disability, you qualify for various benefits from the State.
How to Qualify for Disability Benefits as a Drug Addict
People who are still taking illicit drugs even after becoming impaired may not qualify for the social benefits. The Social Security Administration requires evidence from medical practitioners verifying that you’re no longer using drugs before enrolling you in their system.
However, the SSA does some background checks before denying a drug addiction victim the benefits. They’ll only deny you the benefits if they find that the substance you’re using is the one causing the impairment.
Who Can Benefit from State Protection?
The Americans Disability Act protects addiction victims with disability issues in several ways. For instance, anyone undergoing treatment to survive from drug addiction after becoming impaired can receive different benefits. The same services are also enjoyed by individuals who stopped taking illicit drugs but cannot function normally due to their disability.
Here are a few benefits that disabled individuals can receive from the federal disability rights law:
- Protection against job loss
- Benefits from the Social Security Administration
- Protection against discrimination by the society
Individuals who are taking medication-assisted treatment (MAT) also qualify to get disability benefits. However, these protection rights vary from one condition to the other.
Although it’s hard realizing that your drug addiction is turning into a disability, it’s worth looking out for most indicators. However, you can save yourself from drug addiction by finding a nearby drug rehab. Allowing your loved one to sink into the habit may lead to permanent disability. Take the step now and find the healing that’ll teach you how to be sober again.