If you suspect your young adult (age 18–25) has a disability—whether it’s intellectual, developmental, learning, or mental health-related—it’s not too late to seek support. Young adulthood is a key time for identifying needs and accessing services that can lead to greater independence, education, employment, and well-being.
WHERE TO BEGIN
YOUNG ADULT
IDENTIFY CONCERNS
Ask yourself:
Are they struggling with school, work, social situations, daily life skills, or emotional regulation?
Are they missing developmental or functional milestones compared to peers?
Take notes. Be specific—examples help professionals understand the concern(s).
TALK TO A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
Start with the primary healthcare provider to discuss concerns. Ask for a referral for a full evaluation.
Specialists who can help:
Psychologist or neuropsychologist (for cognitive, learning, or emotional issues)
Psychiatrist (if mental health is involved)
Speech-language pathologist (if communication is a concern)
Occupational therapist (for life skills or sensory needs)
Evaluations can help determine conditions like:
Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD
Intellectual or developmental disabilities
Learning disabilities
Mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, PTSD)
REQUST A FORMAL EVALUATION (IF IN SCHOOL OR COLLEGE)
If your young adult is still in:
High school or transition program (up to age 21):
You can request a special education evaluation through the school.
College:
Contact the Disability Services Office for guidance on getting accommodations (they may require documentation).
UNDERSTAND THEIR RIGHTS
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504, your young adult may qualify for:
Workplace accommodations
College supports
Vocational rehab services
Housing support
Mental health services
EXPLORE SUPPORT SERVICES
Depending on the need, you can explore:
Vocational Rehabilitation Services (helps with job training and employment)
Developmental Disabilities Services (offers life skill support, independent living help, case management)
Mental health providers (therapy, counseling, medication support)
SSI/SSDI (disability benefits through Social Security, if applicable)
Search: “[Your state] vocational rehabilitation” or “[Your state] developmental disability services.”
INVOLVE THEM IN THE PROCESS
Empower your young adult to:
Share what they’re feeling or struggling with
Attend meetings or evaluations
Set goals for school, work, or life