Casual drug use is not a disability under the ADA. ... In order for an individual's drug addiction to be considered a disability under the ADA, it would have to pose a substantial limitation on one or more major life activities. In addition, the individual could not currently be using illegal drugs.
Every person who has a substance use disorder has a unique experience and path that lead them to their addiction. Some people are dealing with unresolved mental health issues or trauma, while others have genetic and environmental factors that have lead them to drug use. Another interesting factor that can sometimes contribute to someone’s addiction is boredom. Boredom isn’t just for people who “have nothing to do”. Plenty of very busy people can also experience boredom from their everyday responsibilities. Often we think of teenagers being bored with school or being grounded, but adults with careers and families can experience boredom as well, which can lead some to seek out ways to entertain themselves with substance use.
