Evaluation and Management of Mental Health Disability in Post-secondary Students

AbstractPurpose of ReviewDue to the interdisciplinary nature of mental health disability in post-secondary educational settings, there is limited information available in the general psychiatric literature. This paper aims to familiarize psychiatrists with issues surrounding mental health disability in post-secondary educational settings. In this manuscript, we review critical aspects of the evaluation and management of post-secondary students who may be entitled to academic accommodations as a result of impairment from psychiatric diagnoses. We discuss common misconceptions about mental health impairment and best practices to mitigate its burden. We review relevant legislation and literature from psychiatric, psychological, and higher education journals and include multidisciplinary expert opinions.Recent FindingsMental illness is increasingly common in the post-secondary student population. When symptoms are severe, they can lead to academic impairment or disability. Nationwide data suggests an increase in post-secondary students requesting accommodations for mental health –related impairments. Recent guidelines from the American Psychiatric Association and The Jed Foundation aim to familiarize mental health providers, evaluators, administrators, students, and their families with best practices related to evaluating and managing mental health disability in post-seco ndary educational settings.SummaryEvaluating, accommodating, and managing mental health disability during t...
Source: Current Psychiatry Reports - Category: Psychiatry Source Type: research