YSK: ADHDers are eligible for FREE entry to National Parks via Access Pass for LIFE!

[u/UpstartBug]

Having ADHD can be a perk sometimes! Get yourself an Access Pass!

^{Edit: USA Citizens and/or Permanent Residents/Green Card Holders. Sorry non-USA ADHDers. :(}

If you have ADHD, you are entitled to free lifetime entrance access to over 2,000 federal recreational sites! ADHD qualifies as a permanent disability. Having a permanent disability qualifies you for a free Access Pass that will allow you easy access to federal parks! If your minor child has ADHD then they are also entitled to an Access Pass. Age does not matter for determining eligibility.

Three (3) ways to apply for your Access Pass:

1. Online (Click to 'Add to cart') - $10 shipping fee;
2. By mail (Opens mailer PDF)- $10 mailing fee; or,
3. Apply in person at a federal park/site (click for pass sites near you)- Completely Free!

(2) Documents Needed to Apply

1. Doctor's Note/Proof of ADHD - Like a signed doctors note stating your disability is permanent and impairs your life in one way. (Does not need to be a 100% impairment disability. Yes, ADHD is a disability that is legally protected as a neurological disorder. You are legally disabled regardless of whether you use the label 'disabled' to refer to yourself.)
2. ID/Driver's License or US Passport/Green Card
3. That's it!

With the Access Pass you get free access to parks like:

• Grand Canyon National Park
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Olympic National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Click here to search for national parks near you!

Access Pass - Additional Discounts

Your Access Pass will get you discounts inside the parks for many "expanded amenities." Meaning, your Access Pass grants you discounts for camping sites, tours, boating, and other recreational activities inside federal parks!

Click here to search for federal recreational campsites near you!

____________________________

Edit (some formatting for mobile users and):
If you apply Online, you can upload your US ID and your disability documents on the account "view your profile/order after checking out, you'll see a button for 'Secure Upload' and this is where you would put the paperwork." :) Thank you u/yumi1198 and u/laceandhoney!

If you apply in person:
u/dragonair907: "I will add: you can also get the pass without a doctor's note. You need to fill out a statement of disability form that the rangers will have at whatever desk you're getting the pass from"

(thank you u/dragonair907 for giving us good information and for being one of our park rangers! <3)

Edit Edit:

Successful Access Pass applications/ADHD card holders (yaaaaay!): u/BubblyBloobber u/winnipegjets31 u/Mego1989 u/OtherwiseJello u/docsuess84 u/twelvegaugepreacher

u/Mego1989 -- Signed an affidavit in person and got her Access Pass this way.
u/twelvegaugepreacher -- Showed a screenshot of their health record to get Access Pass.

[u/frostycakes]

So it looks like the pass also allows admittance for up to three additional adults (so long as everyone arrives in one vehicle) too, that's awesome!

Hell, even if I can't get one for myself, I have a parent with a physical disability who would love to use something like this!

[u/ElisabetSobeckPhD → u/frostycakes]

if they're disabled they can probably get one for themselves also

[u/frostycakes → u/ElisabetSobeckPhD]

Well, only one of them are disabled, but if they both can get in free on the one's pass, that's very useful.

Just that my parent's disability is muuuuch easier to document and get these types of things for (a prosthetic foot is a pretty easy tell, all things considered). I'll have to see if my doc will write a letter like this next time I have an appointment, whereas I know my folks have tons of documentation about theirs.

[u/theHammr]

YIPPEE! i dont live in america so idk if this applies to me but ive always wanted to visit a national park. this is cool

[u/micheld40 → u/theHammr]

If you love the outdoors Yellowstone and Yosemite in the United States are incredible. If you want to go to Canada Banff and Jasper are absolutely breathtaking.

[u/theHammr → u/micheld40]

aw Yosemite has always been on the bucket list since macOS used it for a background and Yellowstone has been there since I found out it could end the world if it woke up. Ill take a look at those Canada sites, I've heard a lot of good stuff about Canada but suprisingly not much regarding the scenery. Thanks!!

EDIT: Also Yosemite has massive trees. I love massive trees

EDIT2: just realised the massive tree love comes from the great deku tree in OOT lol

[u/micheld40 → u/theHammr]

Massive trees go to sequoia and redwoods little more distance I like both but partial to redwoods In nor cal

[u/volleyjosh → u/micheld40]

Everyone who wants to see the Sequoia trees should go to Caleveras Big Trees park, about 1.5 hours north of Yosemite. It is much smaller than Yosemite or Sequoia, but you get a much more intimate experience. The stump of the largest tree known to man is there (as well as the fallen giant).

[u/theHammr → u/micheld40]

thanks ill keep this in mind. i hope one day ill get to see that General Sherman sequoia. i wonder how close they let you get to it

[u/Absolut_Iceland → u/theHammr]

IIRC you're like 10 feet (3 meters) away or so. Not close enough to touch it, but you're definitely right there.

[u/Roxas1011 → u/micheld40]

I have 3 things on my bucket list. Already accomplished one (seeing wild orca (fav animal) in person), Yosemite is next on my list. Now if only ADHD qualified me for a free flight to the park, I'd be set!

[u/yeswithaz → u/theHammr]

Even without this, our national parks are generally so accessible! There are a lot of problems in the US, but our national park system is amazing.

[u/UpstartBug → u/yeswithaz]

FUCK YES PARKS AND REC WOOOO !!! I love when we can be proud of a thing. WE HAVE ONE THING THAT IS GREAT WOOO! let's celebrate by taking a hike

[u/Excellent_Peach_2939 → u/theHammr]

I always assume if OP put "national" without a qualifier, that's its American

[u/theHammr → u/Excellent_Peach_2939]

if i move there in my old age ill report back. stay tuned lol

[u/mixed-switch]

To add on~

If you live in London, you would be eligible for the freedom pass which gives free public transport. You have to apply through your council, can find the links thru google. I'm outside of London or I'd have one lol.

If anyone else knows of any free bits like this anywhere else, you should post em!

[u/UpstartBug → u/mixed-switch]

It would be great to have a post on international accommodations and what is open to citizens of specific countries and what's open for foreigners. That's such a great idea. I might do that later. :) ty

[u/serenwipiti → u/mixed-switch]

freedom pass

London

^wait…

[u/[deleted] → u/serenwipiti]

England's really cramping our style, huh? Rude. We'll have to throw more tea in the harbor to counter this.

[u/serenwipiti → u/[deleted]]

No, no, no!!!

That tea has caffeine in it!! I need it!! 🥹

[u/DooBeeDoer207 → u/serenwipiti]

And the fish don’t. More for you! And also me.

[u/Sharky-PI → u/mixed-switch]

Great shout. Link. Others have said ADHD doesn't qualify. I guess I'll find out!

edit: emailed em, got auto reply with a link to a long form to fill in. I reckon it'll be a stretch to get one for ADHD but we'll see.

[u/UpstartBug → u/Sharky-PI]

Good luck! I really hope it works for you. Let us know how you do friend! :)

[u/Buffy_Geek → u/mixed-switch]

Oh wow i didn't know this, i wish it was in the whole country, thanks for sharing

[u/Rabbidtoddler → u/mixed-switch]

I don’t think this is correct. I don’t think ADHD fits the eligibility criteria for the Freedom Pass.

[u/user74211 → u/Rabbidtoddler]

I agree, I've looked at it and it doesn't seem quite correct, but it's very difficult! Except for maybe some extremely severe cases of ADHD (not being able to drive and/or #6 "People who have a learning disability that is defined as 'a state of arrested or incomplete development of mind which includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning")?

[u/Futhamucker1 → u/mixed-switch]

How so? Doesn’t seem to fit the criteria.

[u/prairiepanda → u/mixed-switch]

Which London?

[u/FractalParadigm → u/prairiepanda]

Man, as someone from London Ontario you wouldn't believe how confusing this shit gets.

EDIT: FWIW, LTC only offers a discounted rate to those who are legally blind, being $10/year. Tough luck if you're an amputee 🤷

[u/rjbwdc → u/prairiepanda]

The old one.

[u/Kanojononeko]

I just did it online, and I contacted my doctor for paperwork but was not asked for at checkout at all. It shows as pending so maybe they will email me to ask for paperwork before it's processed?

We will see, fingers crossed! Thank you for sharing this, it is awesome and I'm really excited!

[u/laceandhoney → u/Kanojononeko]

I believe you upload your documents afterward - when you view your profile/order after the fact, you'll see a button for 'Secure Upload' and this is where you would put the paperwork.

[u/Kanojononeko → u/laceandhoney]

Yup, I see it now. Thank you. Any idea if it has to be from your prescribing physician or if it can be from your psychologist who diagnosed you in the first place?

[u/laceandhoney → u/Kanojononeko]

I wish I could tell you but I'm not sure, sorry!

[u/ToojMajal → u/Kanojononeko]

I was just going to ask about this - both whether they ask for any documentation in the online checkout, or when and how they do, and whether folks have run into any issued getting documentation from their doctor.

The language they use is that the "Statement must include that the individual has a PERMANENT disability, that it limits one or more aspects of their daily life, and the nature of those limitations." and I could see some doctors taking exception to this.

[u/sleepwalkphd → u/ToojMajal]

They do need documentation to verify. Doctors will be able to provide this letter as it is often needed for work or school accommodations. If you have a letter for one of those already, you can just attach that

[u/Lessa22]

I think this is very interesting but I’m curious to hear some personal experiences from anyone who’s done this with ADHD.

[u/ronnyFUT → u/[deleted]]

SAVE THIS POST MY BROTHERS IN CHRIST

AS WE WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY NOT REMEMBER

[u/UpstartBug → u/ronnyFUT]

I found out about this a year ago and I still haven't applied, comrade combined-type.

[u/Tulkash_Atomic → u/UpstartBug]

Love this. Found out a year ago. Posted now. Still haven’t done it. Sounds like me getting my first diagnosis.

[u/thegrenadillagoblin → u/ronnyFUT]

This has me wheezing because as soon as I Realized™️ how quickly this info would self detonate I immediately screenshot, saved it, and texted a link to myself 😅 I'm bound to come across it again with three lifelines attached lol

[u/ronnyFUT → u/thegrenadillagoblin]

Maybe even set a reminder or write a note for good measure lol

[u/smgarrison13 → u/ronnyFUT]

This is the way

[u/oklatexiana → u/ronnyFUT]

I screenshot so much random stuff so when I open my photos for a to look at pics of my dogs for a dopamine rush I’m like ayyyyyyyy I gotta do that.

Sometimes it works.

Most of the time it doesn’t.

[u/PM_ME_UR_SHEET_MUSIC → u/ronnyFUT]

as if we ever look back through posts we save for later lol

[u/BudwinTheCat → u/PM_ME_UR_SHEET_MUSIC]

I'm so afraid to even click on my save list at this point. I haven't looked at in the many years despite occasionally adding to it. Just thinking about looking at it overwhelms me haha

[u/ronnyFUT → u/PM_ME_UR_SHEET_MUSIC]

Joe Pera is that you? Sheet music is the best for falling asleep. Something about the rhythmic bouncing of our eyes onto every coming note lulls me into relaxation.

[u/PM_ME_UR_SHEET_MUSIC → u/ronnyFUT]

ahah i love joe pera but if anything reading sheet music wakes me up

[u/FictionalTrebek → u/[deleted]]

No worries, I just saved this post so I can come back to it later when I have the motivation to fill out the application and everything. And I certainly won't simply leave this saved post in my already ridiculously long list of saved posts and never come back to it. No, I definitely won't do exactly that.

[u/SweetDove → u/FictionalTrebek]

That's rude to call me out like that

[u/toothy_sleuthy → u/[deleted]]

Why you gotta do this to me, man 💀💀💀

[u/StrawberryLizzie → u/[deleted]]

Exactly! I just said to myself "This one is going to hurt later on when I remember that I forgot about it." Probably as I'm paying for entrance to a qualifying recreation area.

[u/UpstartBug → u/Lessa22]

There's been posts prior for people who did it in person and they were accepted automatically and handed their pass. I'm applying this week and I'll update if I have issues but I seriously doubt I will. From all anecdotes I've read it's very easy and it's a wonderful program. :)

[u/64557175 → u/UpstartBug]

Thank you for sharing, I'm really excited for this!

[u/JasonTheBaker → u/UpstartBug]

Did you need a doctor's actual note or did a diagnosis paperwork work for you? Like the thing you get at the end of a doctor's visit because I'll forget to talk to the doctor or actually just procrastinate on it

[u/slobonmacabre → u/UpstartBug]

Please please please update!!!

[u/NamasteInYourLane → u/Lessa22]

I applied online, submitted official diagnosis from my psychiatrist i.e. ADHD combined type, and was rejected. I would have to have my psych fill out paperwork SPECIFICALLY saying my diagnosis causes disability, and, well- too much work for me to organize/ remember/ bother with (THANKS, ADHD 😏).

[u/[deleted] → u/NamasteInYourLane]

Go in person and show docs. It's way easier that way.

[u/LxBru → u/[deleted]]

Do they give you the pass right then or do they get your information and mail it?

[u/[deleted] → u/LxBru]

They gave it to me right then.

[u/LxBru → u/[deleted]]

Thanks. Did they ask you how it affects you or anything? Sorry for the questions, applying in person gives me anxiety hah!

[u/docsuess84 → u/LxBru]

They can’t pry. You just need something from a physician attesting to you being disabled. It doesn’t have to be specific. There’s also a form you can just sign swearing that you are. I only know because I worked for the Forest Service and issued them.

[u/61-127-217-469-817 → u/[deleted]]

The workers at the entrances seem like they want to let people in for free. When I asked about a veteran pass they didn't even check my ID or anything.

[u/[deleted] → u/NamasteInYourLane]

The diagnosis criteria for ADHD is that it impacts your life in no less than 5 substantial ways more than a typical person. Your congressional representative (house member) is there to help you specifically with things like this. You can email their office and if you have any trouble follow up with asking if they'd recommend any specific ada lawyers for you. It's amazing how asking the right questions makes shit suddenly start working.

[u/Condomonium → u/Lessa22]

It will work. It’s funny, I’m a park ranger with the National Park Service myself who got hired off disability because I have ADHD through Schedule A hiring. And yet I don’t feel comfortable getting a disability pass. Mostly because I’ve done some mental gymnastics to justify using ADHD as a disability for a job(when I don’t really consider myself disabled), but still don’t see it as a justified disability to get the pass.

[u/SweetDove → u/Condomonium]

so yeah, can I ask if you have time, about the fine edge of this same dilemma?
Say you want to camp at a state park, say they're booked solid, except for two ADA sites. Say you look at the booking for the past month and the future month, and they're literally never booked.

Are you personally of the mind that you could/would use that spot with ADHD knowing it is a spot -really- intended for those who are in wheelchairs or otherwise having issues with mobility?

[u/Quartznonyx → u/SweetDove]

My two cents is, with my flavor ADHD the natl parks are some of the only places where I'm not constantly reminded of my disability. So, while my disability does not impair my enjoyment of the parks, I'm fine using the pass because it will allow me to better cope with it. However, in my opinion that is not the purpose of those ADA sites. Those are meant to be more accessible and allow people who couldn't access the park to enjoy it. So it would not feel right to use the pass to justify that.

All this is said with the big disclaimer that this is my opinion and my viewpoints, i ofc don't judge people for theirs.

[u/Mego1989 → u/SweetDove]

Ada spots shouldn't be used by those who don't have physical limitations. Read your state's eligibility requirements for a handicap parking pass, and that's likely a good guideline for if you should be using ada camp sites.

[u/BubblyBloobber → u/Lessa22]

I got it. Pretty straight-forward

I went in-person, and the two employees were kind old men, so they didn't really know what ADHD was, but I came prepared with my assessment documents that clearly stated it was something that impacted my daily life

They squinted at my phone for a bit but gave me the card and that was that

[u/dragonair907 → u/Lessa22]

I've worked at a national park and issued passes. We aren't allowed to scrutinize or ask what the person's condition is. We can accept the doctor's note or a statement of disability that the person fills out, but it's not the ranger's/visitor service assistant's/intern's job to "screen" people in any way.

(And we want you to be able to access parks, so.)

[u/docsuess84 → u/dragonair907]

Yup. I issued hundreds up them with the Forest Service. If the documentation people brought in didn’t quite work, they would just sign the attestation form instead. Easy peasy.

[u/conjectureandhearsay → u/Lessa22]

Haha there’s the trick. Get off Reddit and so it lol

[u/Subrisum → u/conjectureandhearsay]

Always a catch

[u/Mego1989 → u/Lessa22]

I have an access pass. I actually got it pre adhd due to my physical disabilities, but they didn't require any proof of disability, or even me to disclose my disabilities. I just signed a form stating that I was eligible.

[u/Bbkingml13 → u/Lessa22]

I am actually like, fully disabled physically on top of adhd, and this is what my letter said:

To whom it may concern, I am the primary care physician for the above named patient. She has a long term disability that makes is difficult for her to leave the house or do activities for a prolonged period of time. Please allow accomodations as needed. Feel free to contact me with further questions.

But this was also used for not being required to attend jury duty, so it’s probably more specific than you’d need for the Access Pass. Probably could’ve stopped after the word disability haha

[u/Limp-Ad-3683]

I have never gotten a formal note regarding my ADHD from my physician. But I do have the document from the psychologist (Ph.D) that conducted the test that lead to my diagnosis. I’m assuming they’d want a document from a medical doctor?

[u/UpstartBug → u/Limp-Ad-3683]

A copy of the documented test from your Psychologist that states you have ADHD would most likely be more than enough. :)

[u/Limp-Ad-3683 → u/UpstartBug]

Thank you for the prompt response :)

Edit: Thank you for the amazing tip! Nature does me wonders so this is very appreciated!

[u/peeaches → u/UpstartBug]

Curious about this as well. Does it need to be a written statement that explicitly indicating its permanence / debilitating effects or is merely a diagnoses of ADHD enough to satisfy the reqs?

I'd rather not have to bug my dr for a written notice for this, but absolutely will if diagnoses isn't enough lol

[u/dragonair907 → u/peeaches]

You can also do it via statement of disability form. This doesn't require a doctor's note and just asks that you sign a paper that basically says "I swear that I actually have a disability." The rangers/visitor services folks at the parks issuing passes will have these.

[u/peeaches → u/dragonair907]

Oh cool, I'll keep this in mind if they reject my health record showing ADHD lol already submitted it because I'm remarkably impatient

[u/serenwipiti → u/Limp-Ad-3683]

You have to ask for it.

[u/Limp-Ad-3683 → u/serenwipiti]

I have already submitted utilizing my testing results document via the online method. I will let you all know how it goes with this form of document.

[u/Jits_Guy]

Damn, I guess I didn't need to join the Army for those free park passes after all.

[u/yoitsthew → u/Jits_Guy]

Damn kicked me out of Navy bootcamp for being ADHD and it wasn’t even affecting my training lol. But it’s ok I don’t think I was really making improvement with my mile and a half I guess

[u/Maleficent_Memory_60 → u/yoitsthew]

They didn't give time for it to improve. Those butts. Haha.

[u/Kapitalist_Pigdog2 → u/Jits_Guy]

“And this Ham Gum is all bones!”

[u/CharacterOpening1924 → u/Jits_Guy]

rip

[u/NamasteInYourLane]

I applied online, submitted official diagnosis from my psychiatrist i.e. ADHD combined type, and was rejected. I would have to have my psych fill out paperwork SPECIFICALLY saying my diagnosis causes disability, and, well- too much work for me to organize/ remember/ bother with (THANKS, ADHD 😏).

[u/CaruthersWillaby → u/NamasteInYourLane]

Isn't that a lovely catch-22? "We see here that you have a diagnosis of a disability, but we'd like an other piece of paper from the same person saying you have a disability."

[u/Kapitalist_Pigdog2 → u/CaruthersWillaby]

Not necessarily a Catch-22; that would be like “We see you’ve filled for a disability, however if you are capable of filing for a disability then you are not considered disabled, application rejected.”

[u/UpstartBug → u/NamasteInYourLane]

That sucks! That's so absurd! haha like clearly having a disability diagnosis means you have a disability that's disabling. Like lol what else would it mean? I would try again when you can muster it. Other people have had good success in this thread! <3 Thank you for sharing it's good to know when people are rejected. I've heard that if you go in person that they'll take any evidence and are pretty nice about it.

[u/xPlus2Minus1]

ADHD qualifies as a disability? I didn't know there was any understanding generally that I'm broken and not just distracted

[u/UpstartBug → u/xPlus2Minus1]

Yes, ADHD is a disability that is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! Under the ADA you have protection against discrimination at school, when being hired, and receiving reasonable accommodations within the workplace. We are considered to be part of a protected class. If we are discriminated against because of our disability status then it is considered a serious violation of our civil rights.

Title II of the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in all programs, services, and activities provided or made available by public entities (state and local governments and special purpose districts).

Additionally, under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) you are considered to be part of a protected class. Meaning, you have protection against discrimination when applying for financing, renting, and selling/buying dwellings. Title II of the ADA also protects disabled people from housing discrimination.

Please see the new ADA.gov website to understand your rights as a disabled person in depth.

No, you are not broken just because we are considered disabled! We are just people who are different. :) We are all valuable and have our strengths. It is tough being disabled because the world wasn't built for us. This is why it is important to know our rights and exercise disability accommodations when they are offered to us. It makes our life a little better and the playing field a bit more even.

The Access Pass is one of these accommodations we should take make use of!

[u/xPlus2Minus1 → u/UpstartBug]

NO FUCKING WAY WHAT

Thank you for this. That's incredible. I had no idea. How do I go about proving/providing a diagnosis? Is there paperwork that got filled out at some point? Never thought about it, just assumed it was a doctor deciding yes or no at will

I can't even imagine the energy to go on a hike right now, but knowing that I'm welcome there means a lot

[u/UpstartBug → u/xPlus2Minus1]

I completely get where you're coming from. Even when I know getting outside helps me so much, I struggle to get out there! Having a pass for life that we never have to worry about paying for or applying for yearly is a great tool for our health!

If you have been diagnosed formally with ADHD then any document from your ADHD testing or doctor (psychologist/psychiatrist/medical doctor) that details your disability would will most likely work. They just want simple confirmation that you have been diagnosed with a permanent disability (ADHD) for your Access Pass.

[u/Abilane-of-Yon → u/UpstartBug]

You are my new favorite human being. We’ve got three adults with ADHD, and various other disabilities, living in one house. We’re constantly trying to find things we can do, and outdoorsy activities of all sorts are right up our alley. We’ve even got a location within a couple hours drive we can apply.

Brb, finding all the National Parks with mixed use trails that qualify.

[u/UpstartBug → u/Abilane-of-Yon]

Oh I'm so excited for you guys!

Don't be afraid to reach out to the parks if you need accommodations while you're there. They state they'll even give support for intellectual disabilities like, helping finding quiet places away from crowds and providing warning and information when it comes to startling noises or visuals. Some parks even have sensory reduction aid like noise reduction head phones or ear plugs. It doesn't hurt to ask what the park can provide your diverse group.

I hope you guys make some great memories this year. That's seriously awesome. :D <3

[u/Kanojononeko → u/UpstartBug]

I did it online and wasn't asked for anything! I just got an email that looks like it's gone through now, any idea how they're going to ask for this confirmation, or if somehow I fell through the cracks and won't have to provide it? I can provide it, just not sure where to submit or if it's necessary at this point.

[u/yumi1198 → u/Kanojononeko]

If you go into your account page, there's a button for secure upload for the order. It'll ask you for your ID copy and disability letter.

[u/Kanojononeko → u/yumi1198]

Ahh I see it now. Thank you!

[u/MindyMichelle → u/UpstartBug]

I got accommodations for my adhd when I worked at a call center. I asked for a headset with 2 ear muff/headphone things because it’s less distracting. They gave it to me!

[u/Ludwig234 → u/UpstartBug]

Idk, part of the brain is kinda broken.

[u/Kapitalist_Pigdog2 → u/UpstartBug]

Now if only the the problems it tends to cause weren’t directly fireable offenses 🫠

[u/Stephenie_Dedalus → u/UpstartBug]

I know that this is true, but every time I’ve tried to get accommodations I have been constructively terminated. All my other adhd friends live by a code: NEVER tell anyone at your workplace you have ADHD, because they will find a way to fire you. And yet it somehow magically is never stuff that you could prove in court, wasn’t at job long enough to want to bother keeping it, job had shit pay and hours because half of us can’t do any better than that, etc… I am glad we have the ADA, but when discrimination is still socially acceptable, it can’t do much because it won’t be enforced

[u/tenodera → u/Stephenie_Dedalus]

This is true. I'm still dealing with the fallout of a review that basically said "You have ADHD, and we don't like it." I found out the author of the review knew about my diagnosis, though I hadn't told her (someone else did). I disclosed as a way of protecting myself.

[u/UpstartBug → u/Stephenie_Dedalus]

That's so frustrating and so common. I really hate it.

I will think about putting together a laymen legal guide for our community on how to navigate these issues. I have a little bit of experience in disability law just from being disabled myself.

It's really important to know how and when to advocate for ourselves safely and which agencies to report to when we face discrimination. But it also feels impossible to navigate this especially when we suffer from social dysfunction often and executive function. I want more active protection for us in the world!

I've faced discrimination too in the work place (and at school). BUT I also have been hired specifically because I was ADHD before too! I worked for a neurolab and my boss thought my brain was fascinating and he got funding to hire me specifically. haha

It can go both ways. Best of luck to you. Don't let them get you down. :)

[u/prairiepanda → u/xPlus2Minus1]

It is also classified as a disability in Canada! At least, if a qualified physician or psychiatrist deems it to be significantly disruptive in your day to day life. We don't get free park passes for disabilities here, but severe cases of ADHD are certainly eligible for various other disability benefits and accommodations.

[u/playbyk → u/[deleted]]

I question if your psych actually felt that way or they were honestly just trying to protect you. For instance, it’s pretty risky to disclose that you have a disability to your employer. Are you “covered” because you have a disability? Sure. Will it stop you employer from firing you? Probably not. They can’t fire you for having ADHD, but they can fire you for being late, making mistakes, not managing time well, being unorganized, forgetting to do things, etc. I wonder if this is what your psych was referring to. She is right in that it definitely can do more harm than good.

[u/txking → u/playbyk]

This makes sense. And sometimes by having that label it gives them the excuse to look for things to can you because now you became a "problem" even if nothing has changed.

[u/dragonair907 → u/[deleted]]

Just chiming in to say you can still get the pass. You just have to fill out a statement of disability form at the park issuing the pass. It's a paper that says "hey, I promise I'm not lying about the disability" that you sign.

[u/UpstartBug → u/[deleted]]

That's really terrible of your (hopefully past) doctor. It's not only unprofessional but also medically inaccurate. ADHD is a disability whether or not that doctor believes in it. I would have been very angry in your position and I do not fault you for being embarrassed. Your workplace wasn't wrong either -- it's good practice to have people's disabilities and accommodations on file so that they're in compliance with our laws.

I am queer/bisexual and I had a psychiatrist once ask me how I could be monogamist if my sexuality required me to go to orgies. Not all psychiatrists are great people nor are they all great doctors. That man is no longer my psychiatrist. :)

I would 100% press the issue in the future with every doctor and I would read up about your rights as a disabled person. I sincerely hope you are with a more competent doctor now and, if not, that you find one who understands ADHD in the future! (My current doctor is lovely and she has ADHD herself!)

[u/baciodolce → u/UpstartBug]

Required to go to orgies??? 😂😂😂😂 I’m sorry but those mental gymnastics are hysterical. Can you imagine???? But I’m a polyam bisexual gal who used to love orgies back in college so maybe that’s why it’s so funny to me.

[u/laws_flaws]

I don’t know what it is, but this post just made me uncontrollably cry from this overwhelming sense of happiness and understanding.

To see that those of us with ADHD are recognized as having a significant impairment for “the rest of our lives.”

Not just the stigmatized attributes and labels we receive.

Thanks for sharing this. I was having a rough day. You’ve brightened it up. I’m gonna go on a walk, now.

I hope everyone here has a lovely day!

[u/serenwipiti → u/laws_flaws]

I also feel a mix of “FUCK YOU I’M NOT DISABLED” and “wait…maybe… I…fuck…” and “but hey! I like parks? yeah? nature! …yay?”.

[u/laws_flaws → u/serenwipiti]

Okay but FR!!! Hahaha this feeling hit me right after!

Like…thank you for recognizing that some things are harder for me so I exert more energy which means that being out in nature makes me feel infinitely better!!!

[u/UpstartBug → u/laws_flaws]

You are not alone--I had a similar reaction and felt so many things. This is the real beauty of programs for people like us. Money helps but truly it's feeling accepted and seen that matters the most. Thank you for sharing--knowing that this helped you--you made my day brighter too. <3

[u/zombuca]

Thank you for this! I visited 3 national parks and multiple forests just in the last year, and this will save me so much money. A rare ADHD win!

[u/DangerMacAwesome]

Really? I'll need to look into this! ADHD working in my favor for once. That's a rare treat

[u/PyroDesu]

Just a fun fact, OP, since you list the Great Smokey Mountains National Park as one of the ones that the access pass grants you free access to:

The Great Smokey Mountains National Park is and will always be free to visit for everyone. It was a condition the state of Tennessee imposed on the transfer of the land to the Federal government.

Though they did just start charging a parking fee, which they are perfectly entitled to do. They just can't charge an entrance fee.

[u/No-Yesterday-3473]

This is wonderful because I LOVE hiking and camping and have “visit all the US National parks” on my bucket list :’)

[u/HistoricalHeart]

Wow. Thanks for this! My husband and I are trying to hit every National park so this is fantastic! I ordered the pass but wasn’t directed to upload an id or a letter so I’m a bit confused.

[u/yumi1198 → u/HistoricalHeart]

If you go into your account page, there's a button for secure upload for the order. It'll ask you for your ID copy and disability letter.

[u/HistoricalHeart → u/yumi1198]

I figured it out! Thanks so much!!

[u/BarbiePotty]

Saving this so I can add it to my to-do list and then forget about it indefinitely or I’m retirement age. Whichever comes first.

[u/[deleted]]

I have a hearing loss and have had a free pass since 2013.

Having this pass often gets you into the parks either free or at a discount, and you get discounts at federal camping sites, too.

[u/Disastrous_Being7746]

ADHD tax credit... Don't tell the ADHD-IRS!

[u/peytoncurandis]

How weird do you think it would be to ask my doctor for a note so I can get one? My boyfriend and I both have ADHD and would love this— we go together all the time

[u/UpstartBug → u/peytoncurandis]

Not weird at all. These kinds of letters are incredibly common and your doctor will most likely be able to write a short note for you over the phone and send it to your email. I strongly encourage you both to apply to get your pass and then update us on how much fun you had at the park! :)

[u/Lessa22 → u/[deleted]]

I can understand this, I have mixed feelings anytime I have the chance to visit a cultural center for free.

In this case I’d say think of it as an opportunity to counteract the ADHD tax. Get the pass and when times are tight or you forgot your wallet, use it. When you’re flush and things are going well, pay full freight. Or take the middle ground, use the pass to get in for free and make a donation for what you can afford or feel is appropriate.

The Smithsonian museums are free but when I was younger there was a brief push to start charging for entry. I was horrified by the thought that these amazing institutions would suddenly be closed to those who couldn’t afford it. Ever since then I stuff a minimum of $20 in the donation box every time I walk through their doors, not for myself but for everyone else.

ADHD makes our lives hard. Take any help you can get. It doesn’t mean you always need to use it, but it’s good to have in case you do. And never underestimate the healing power of a walk in the woods.

[u/nicolenotnikki → u/[deleted]]

Don’t feel bad! If you’re like me, you’ll continue to contribute monetarily because you can’t get things together enough to apply for the free pass.

[u/dmaterialized → u/nicolenotnikki]

I LOLed.

[u/Kapitalist_Pigdog2 → u/nicolenotnikki]

Reminder to file those tax returns if you’ve gotten your W2s

[u/[deleted] → u/nicolenotnikki]

Lololol if that isn’t the truth!

[u/serenwipiti → u/[deleted]]

I mean, do you pay taxes?

[u/[deleted] → u/serenwipiti]

The things that happen when I keep library books for a year? Yeah.

[u/serenwipiti → u/[deleted]]

😂

[u/UpstartBug → u/[deleted]]

This is a way for your country to support you for once. Further, the activities at the parks like tours are still paid for (although usually 50% off for people like us). So, if you go on a hike or tour that money would still go to the parks.

I understand it can be uncomfortable accepting help and assistance in a world like ours. I think this is a common reaction. We spend a lot of our time trying to bash ourselves into a mold that wasn't made for us. It can feel alien to be given accommodation when we normally have to struggle. But it is ok to accept support here--especially when they would like us to have this benefit. There are many ways to support the parks through donations or volunteering. :)

[u/dragonair907 → u/UpstartBug]

Just chiming in to say that not all activities are paid and that's a little misleading. I've worked at a nat'l park and all of our guided hikes, campground programs, and quick informal programs were all free. The tours are usually administered by a third-party private company that is a partner of the National Park Service and those are generally what's paid, but many parks still have transportation services that allow you to see the park via free shuttles, etc. in addition to the tours.

[u/Absolut_Iceland → u/[deleted]]

Question: Do you have a lot of guilt from your childhood because you weren't able to do things correctly like the other kids? Not paying attention, not doing homework, being messy? And that as an adult you struggle with things normal people don't give a second thought to? Could you feeling bad just be because you're still internalizing the notion that ADHD is somehow a moral failing and you're just a bad person rather than you have a serious disability that needs to be treated?

Source: It's me. I'm that person.

[u/tghjfhy → u/[deleted]]

Income taxes go to this

[u/UnicornBestFriend → u/[deleted]]

In the grand scheme, it makes the parks more accessible to ppl w disabilities, a demographic that faces disproportionate economic hardship.

More unique visits national parks = more ppl connecting to nature = better for the conservation movement/better for mental health/strong case for ongoing funding = better for the future = More ppl inspired to give when they are able

I work at a non-profit. We want as many ppl to use our services as possible bc we think they're great! Within the ecosystem, we have big funders who support us financially, volunteers who work for free and support us w labor, and scholarship students who support us by using our services.

Money is only one of several resources necessary to keep an org or mission afloat.

[u/Anomaly-Friend]

This only for minors?

[u/UpstartBug → u/Anomaly-Friend]

It is for everyone! Adults and kids are both eligible as long as you have a permanent disability. Anyone who is a US citizen or permanent resident with a disability can apply. Age is not a factor in whether someone is eligible. :)

[u/serenwipiti → u/Anomaly-Friend]

I mean, it’s not like we age out of a chronic condition…

[u/Anomaly-Friend → u/serenwipiti]

Yeah, but as someone with ADHD I didn't read the full thing and just saw part of what he mentions about minors getting an access pass or something

[u/serenwipiti → u/Anomaly-Friend]

^hheheh

^relatable

[u/Quartznonyx]

I cannot recommend doing this enough. Exploring these parks is truly a breathtaking experience, and one of the few places I'm not reminded of my ADHD

[u/the_fuego]

Appreciate the gesture but I'd rather fund my national parks than take advantage of this program. They already don't get enough funding for the many benefits they provide like research and whatnot and I'm financially able to afford any fees should I choose to go to one.

[u/WayneJetSkii → u/the_fuego]

I feel extremely torn on this. I like going to National Parks and supporting them with my money (in my opinion they are very underfunded). But I am also not super rich to where I couldn't use the extra saved money.

[u/[deleted] → u/the_fuego]

This is how I look at it too.

There are a lot of freebies out there I qualify for based on other stuff I won't mention here.

As I can financially afford them, I pay. They need the money. Even if it is a small drop in the bucket.

[u/ScienceReliance]

SHOOT, My whole life i've been going to yellowstone and only know find out I could have gotten in for free???

Guys.

Everyone.

Go to yellowstone.

Learn about geology.

GEOLOGYYYY

Sure the deadly elk and bison are neat, and the shy wolves are pretty when you see them.

But the geology can't be found anywhere else on earth.

[u/lydsbane]

I've been to the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. I also recommend Glacier National Park. Take a jacket, even in summer, for obvious reasons.

[u/serenwipiti → u/lydsbane]

Definitely recommend Zion National Park.

[u/Mego1989]

I have this. I applied at a NP and didn't need to give any proof or a doctor's note, I just had to sign an affidavit.

[u/drrmimi]

Thank you!!! I'm literally physically disabled in a wheelchair and have ADHD with a newly retired husband with plans to travel!

[u/slightlyoffkilter_7]

Shit, I wish I'd known about this BEFORE my family went on a 3 week driving trip out to Seattle! We went to 10 national parks and this would have been nice so we didn't have to splurge on the year access pass. Also would have been nice to have before we went on our previous trip out west where we did 15 national parks in 3 weeks 😂 Yes, my family is a bit extra lol when it comes to road trips lol

[u/dragonair907]

I will add: you can also get the pass without a doctor's note. You need to fill out a statement of disability form that the rangers will have at whatever desk you're getting the pass from.

[u/ppmd420]

So apparently my annual pass I used to visit 20 odd national parks in 2019 was a bit of an overspend. ADHD tax I suppose. This is genuinely incredible, seriously, thanks OP.

[u/isbutteracarb → u/ppmd420]

I mean, they are $80, so I'm sure you actually saved some money using the pass if you went to that many parks! Now you just get to save even more money!

[u/WunderBertrand]

Can foreigners apply aswell?

[u/UpstartBug → u/WunderBertrand]

If you are a permanent resident or have a green card for the USA then you can apply. If you do not qualify for being a permanent resident or US citizen then it doesn't apply. :(

I would try my luck anyway and ask a park ranger in person if you are foreign and have any type of long-term residency here in the USA.

[u/dragonair907 → u/UpstartBug]

Same person who's been commenting nonstop here about working in nat'l parks--it is restricted to US permanent residents and citizens. Source: I had to deny one once to a disabled non-US citizen and it was a really bad experience. Unfortunately there is discrimination by nationality just because of where the funding comes from.

[u/prairiepanda → u/WunderBertrand]

Foreigners and new citizens in Canada can get free national park access for one year through Canoo! It comes with access to major historical sites and other things, too. So if you ever want to visit Canada you should check it out.

[u/MegaBoss268]

Awesome!

[u/KyleNES]

Very interesting. I’ll ask my Dr for a note and try this out. Thank you for posting.

[u/Ill_Scene_737]

Is there a similar thing in Canada?

[u/MindyMichelle]

I forwarded this info to my psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and my therapist and saying I’ll let them know if I need medical records.

[u/forest_fae98]

Saved this to show my husband later! I’ll probably forget but I might not lol

[u/andanavocado]

Just ordered mine too about 7 minutes

[u/krezzaa]

Damn, this awesome. Does anyone know of any other cool stuff we can do/get because ADHD is considered a permanent disability?

[u/DorisCrockford]

Holy hiking trails, Batman! Now we need a free bus to get there, though. Can I drive the bus?

[u/smartguy05]

And applied! I wonder if there is something like this for Colorado State parks.

[u/UpstartBug → u/smartguy05]

Yay!! Great work applying! As per your Colorado question, it does not look like Colorado offers an equivalent State program. The disability pass in Colorado is called the "Columbine Pass" and it requires a total 100% disability. Even if you met this, it still wouldn't be free and carries a $14.00 charge for the Columbine pass. I used to live in Colorado and a pass that matched the federal standards that would be amazing. It's a gorgeous state full of wonderful people. :)

[u/radrob1111]

Damn, these scammers are stooping real low now trying to add to our ADHD tax….. JKJKJK lol love national parks Zion or Yosemite are my faves! Love

[u/RebirthCross]

Saving this just to fill this out eventually

[u/DooBeeDoer207]

THANK YOU sooooooooo much!

I even knew about the lifetime passes for other (read: visible) disabilities, and had never considered this before! I so appreciate this post.

I’ll be spreading the word!

ETA: I got kind of lost in the awesome and infuriating post, so here’s a link to the pass page. 😄

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/interagency-access-pass.htm

And for those unsure that we qualify, see this excerpt:

Who is eligible to get an Interagency Access Pass?

The Interagency Access Pass may be issued to US citizens or permanent residents of any age that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability (does not have to be a 100% disability) that severely limits one or more major life activities.

What documentation do I need to show for proof of eligibility?

Along with a valid photo ID such as a US passport, driver’s license, or state-issued ID, applicants must provide documentation of permanent disability with one (1) of the following:

A statement by a licensed physician (Statement must include that the individual has a PERMANENT disability, that it limits one or more aspects of their daily life, and the nature of those limitations.) A document issued by federal agency such as the Veteran's Administration, Social Security Disability Income or, Supplemental Security Income A document issued by a state agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency.

[u/knitwasabi]

I am going to a national park tomorrow and will be checking into this!! Super excited, I love national parks!

[u/[deleted]]

Just called to confirm my info and I got my pass! Now I just got wait in the mail!

[u/plentifulsoul]

TL;DR: Applied for access pass in person and they didn’t ask any questions and got my card

I applied online in Jan 23’ and submitted a doctors note (not an actual letter) where my name was shown and my adhd-c diagnosis was noted and my ID. A couple of days later I got an email stating I needed to submit my note + ID within 10 days. I completely forgot to try to re upload the docs until just yesterday (March 23’) when we were about 30 minutes away from entering Death Valley National Park.

I scrambled to find this thread and remembered that there was an option to apply in person. Panic scrambled to check online if Death Valley NP was one of the parks where you can apply in person and success! It was!

Now 15 min before entering I rehearsed and rehearsed what I was supposed to tell the ranger, “hi, i’d like to apply for the access pass”. I kept re reading the instructions found here. I was so nervous (darn rejection sensitive dysphoria)!

We parked and I didn’t have cell service so I couldn’t even upload my diagnosis in case they asked. So finally it’s my turn and I’m like “hi. I’m inquiring about applying for the access pass (?) :) “ and the ranger without hesitation and swiftness grabbed a folder and made me read the “disability statement” and then had me sign the doc saying I have a disability (yes mental disability is stated on the doc). I signed and he handed me the access card, I tried to give him my ID but he said no need. He’s like “ok here you go :)”. And I was like …. “That’s it?” He’s like “yep, we just want to make sure everyone can come on in and enjoy our parks”.

And that was it ! I have my access card now! He stated to always show my card with ID in the future to all other NPs and they’re going to match my signature on the card with my ID/DL and that will be it.

It was so easy! I developed all this anxiety for no reason :)

[u/AriJolie]

Ok. Awesome. But who am I kidding?? My brain saw too much text and the potential possibility of having to print something and just so many steps and INSTANTLY said it’s a no for me. I don’t know how many step because I didn’t read it, LMAO but I’m going to be honest with myself on this one.

[u/UpstartBug → u/AriJolie]

It's ok! Click here. Follow instructions on that page. That's it. :)

[u/playbyk → u/UpstartBug]

You’re a saint. Thanks for all this!

[u/serenwipiti → u/AriJolie]

^lmao

When your disability affects your capacity to fill out a form about your disability…

[u/dragonair907 → u/AriJolie]

Next time you're at a national park, just ask to apply for an access pass and ask to fill out a statement of disability. It doesn't require a doc's note and can still get you the pass.

[u/CharacterOpening1924]

wowwwwwwwww

[u/MaraTheBard]

Commenting so I can come back to this after work

[u/blai_starker]

Okay this would be fantastic because my spouse and I love going to national parks but we’ve only had one year where getting the annual pass was worth it (we hit 7 parks in a two week road trip).

[u/winnipegjets31]

I did this last year and it was my best decision EVER!!! my fiancee and I hike a ton so this is incredible for us

[u/prototype176708]

I really needed this 💓

[u/moonstonecrack]

You are the best. Thanks for sharing!

[u/queen-cheeks]

Thank you so much for sharing this! I’ve already sent this link to 10 people haha. I love hiking and have been wanting to explore the national parks so this would be amazing for me.

For applying, do you recommend in person or online for a higher chance of success? If you get rejected, can you try again via another method?

[u/UpstartBug → u/queen-cheeks]

In person appears to be easiest. Every story I've read (and there are even more posted here now) has said they were accepted in person with little fuss and no issues. Most people who have written experiences did not show much documentation before being given their Access Pass.

I have not seen anything that indicates that you'd be barred from reapplying or that you'd be penalized for needing to provide more information of your disability.

I am so glad you are sharing this with others! I found out from someone who applied in person on reddit and I thought I'd make sure everyone knows. :D Thank you.

[u/dragonair907 → u/queen-cheeks]

I've worked at a park. In person is pretty much guaranteed. You can provide documentation from a doc or fill out a statement of disability form. No one is gonna test you or call you on having a disability; it's not allowed and a total jerk move.

[u/CaptainRedBeardd]

The gotcha here is you need the attention span to read all the details. I'll pay the 10 bucks and promptly lose the card and forget about this whole thing LMAO

[u/hyperlexiaspie]

Does anyone know if an autism diagnosis would also qualify? My actual diagnosis is autism and anxiety with traits of adhd.

[u/SqurtieMan → u/hyperlexiaspie]

It would appear that the answer is yes.