Oppositional Defiant Disorder Disability Benefits in Canada
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a condition in which a child or teen has frequent and recurring outbursts of anger, irritability, defiance, or vindictiveness towards family or authority figures.
ODD has yet to be linked to a clear cause or trigger. Experts suggest it’s the result of a combination of inherited and environmental factors – meaning genetics, and problems with child-rearing (for example, lack of supervision, inconsistent/harsh discipline, abuse/neglect).
Distinguishing between ODD and typical childhood tantrums can be tricky. Oppositional behaviour is common at certain stages of development. Defiance disorder generally presents during preschool years.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides a list of criteria for diagnosing ODD:
- Includes at least four symptoms from any of these categories — anger and irritable mood; argumentative and defiant behavior; or vindictiveness
- Occurs with at least one individual who is not a sibling
- Causes significant problems at work, school or home
- Occurs on its own, rather than as part of the course of another mental health problem, such as a substance use disorder, depression or bipolar disorder
- Lasts at least six months
Oppositional defiant disorder treatment generally involves selective psychotherapy and training for the child, as well as the parents. Treatment extends for months on average. The foundation of ODD treatment involves:
- Parent training (developing parenting skills that are more positive, less frustrating)
- Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT)
- Individual and family therapy
- Cognitive problem-solving training
- Social skills training
How does the Disability Tax Credit work?
Children coping with ODD may clash at home with family, butt heads with teachers at school, and struggle to work with other supervisors & authority figures. Maintaining relationships with friends and family can be difficult as a result. Severe cases of ODD can potentially lead to antisocial behaviour, substance use disorder, and even suicide.
The Canadian government recognizes ODD as a disability for these reasons, making disability tax benefits readily available to families with a child combatting the condition. The Canadian Disability Tax Credit (DTC) or the Child Disability Tax Credit are programs families can turn to for relief from these unavoidable disability costs. These disability tax refunds are designed to balance tax equity, alleviating the financial and emotional costs associated with defiance disorder or other disabilities.
How can the NBA help me?
The National Benefit Authority has helped over 40,000 Canadians recover their disability tax credits, doing all of the diligent research and paperwork required for a successful claim. Many eligible Canadians who qualify for the DTC don’t submit their claim, as the application process can be time-consuming and detailed.
We can help determine your Disability Tax Credit eligibility, fill out your Disability Tax Certificate (or the T2201 application) and other necessary disability tax forms, and follow up with the Canada Revenue Agency on your behalf.
Whether you’re submitting a claim for the first time, or you’re looking to retrieve Disability Tax Credit retroactive assets, our team is committed in recovering every dollar you’re owed!
