What is Considered a Disability?

According to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), a disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a history or record of such an impairment(s) or something perceived by others as such an impairment(s).

Some examples of physical or cognitive conditions include orthopedic, visual, speech or hearing impairments; epilepsy, emotional illness, specific learning disabilities and addictions (individuals who currently engage in the illegal use of drugs are not protected by the ADA). Major life activities include functions such as performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working.

Some examples of specific disabilties include but are not limited to ADHD, allergies, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, blind or low vision, closed head injury, physical/mobility.

Please note that describing a disability does not make a disability. Test anxiety is not currently considered a disability under the ADA.