Psychological Disabilities

Psychological disabilities refer to a wide range of mental health-related diagnoses can impact how a student thinks, feels and functions in academic life. Common diagnoses include depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia. Students with psychological disabilities bring deep empathy, self-awareness and perspective to their communities. Symptoms can fluctuate over time, and changes to treatment or medication can also affect day-to-day functioning.

Barriers to Access

In a college environment, you might find some of these things more challenging:

• Strict attendance or deadline policies
• Intense sensory environments like loud sounds, strong smells or bright lights
• Crowded seating or limited access to an exit
• Long periods without breaks
• Strict time limits on exams or assignments
• Unexpected changes to coursework, due dates or instructors
• Limited options for how to participate in class