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

Due 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.

Mental 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-secondary educational settings. Evaluating, accommodating, and managing mental health disability during the post-secondary years are complicated processes. Legislation and nuanced evaluations can guide evaluating psychiatrists and administrators in recommending appropriate accommodations. By being knowledgeable about relevant legislation, best practices for evaluations, and available student resources, psychiatrists will be able to collaborate effectively with all stakeholders.