Despite being invisible compared to most disabilities, anxiety and depression are just as debilitating and can be medically qualified as the same. Nevertheless, between stigma allowing them to be brushed off and there being few precedents in place for a situation like mine, navigating college with these mental disabilities is difficult. More than 62 percent of students who leave college for mental health reasons do so because of their school’s reaction to these issues (Inside Higher Ed). In a perfect world, a few changes would make a world of difference. In actuality, they aren’t that implausible.
Make the conversation less awkward. There should be no reason that I can’t tell my professor in all honesty that I wasn’t in class that morning because my depression wouldn’t let me get out of bed. I shouldn’t be met with panicked looks if/when I mention having anxiety. These are real issues that should be treated thus.
Set up a system. With that same conversation in mind, a little leeway would be welcome. Sometimes that walk across campus is honestly terrifying, especially when compared to the warmth and safety of the dorm. I could have my work done through the next week and be prepared to go within minutes of walking out the door before a panic attack hits. In a situation like this, I’m hardly trying to skip class, so why should my participation points mirror someone who’s choosing to get wasted? With 13% of college students being formally diagnosed with mental health conditions such as these, it makes sense to have a plan in place to keep them where they need to be academically (ADAA).
Recognize the issue. No, I can’t treat these disorders with a cast, brace, or wheelchair. I may or may not be on medication. Whatever the treatment, they can be medically diagnosed just like a broken leg or something more serious. That being said, these need to be treated as the real problem that they are.
Be there. I’m unspeakably grateful for the friends and community members who’ve stood by me through my struggles. It truly isn’t difficult to stay by someone’s side if they need it— even if I want to be alone right then, I’ll appreciate the attempt.
Sources:
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2012/10/30/colleges-dont-always-help…
http://www.adaa.org/finding-help/helping-others/college-students/facts