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Working with Students who have Psychiatric Disabilities November 2013 Carolyn Roney Sr. Director Disability Services

Objectives Describe types of psychiatric disabilities Review the general process of implementing accommodations to students Answer common questions and concerns Answer un-common questions and concerns Provide resources for faculty 3

Overview of Disability Services Serve as university community’s expert on disability. Establish eligibility, and arrange for accommodations for students with disabilities. Currently 950 students registered with the office 3 full time staff members 4

Our Students The students we know:

What is a Psychiatric Disability? Psychiatric disorders are a pattern of behavioral or psychological symptoms that may profoundly disrupt a person’s ability to think, feel, and relate in a healthy or appropriate manner. This may impact a behavior toward others or his/her environment and/or create distress for the person experiencing these symptoms. 7

Most Common Psychiatric Disorders in College Settings Depression Bipolar Disorder (formerly known as manic depression) Alcohol Abuse Eating Disorders Anxiety Disorders  Generalized Anxiety Disorder/Panic/Phobias  Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)  Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 8

While a student may have a psychiatric disorder, which may or may not be readily apparent, that does not necessarily mean that the student will be impaired or disruptive in the classroom. 9

Psychiatric Disorders are Recognized by the Rehabilitation Act and ADA According to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 “Qualified students cannot be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” 10

Possible Signs of Psychiatric Disorders Reluctance to participate Relaying negative self-concept or lack of confidence Excessive posting in the classroom Disorganized thoughts patterns and/or comments in classroom Absence from the course Easily angered 11

Process of Implementing Accommodations Student registers with Disability Services by providing medical documentation and making specific requests for accommodations. Director determines appropriate accommodations and confirms in writing. Disability Services notifies instructors – if a “need to know” – students have a role/responsibility to initiate 12

Common Questions Regarding the Typical Process of Implementing Accommodations What if a student requests accommodations without approval from Disability Services When does “extra time” become “too much time”? Can I deny an accommodation? When? How? How do I implement a (confidential) accommodation in a group project? What if the accommodation conflicts with my grading deadline? Can I know specifics about the disability? 13

Un-Common Questions Regarding the Typical Process of Implementing Accommodations How do I discourage a student who discloses too much personal (disability) information? What if the student abuses accommodations? What if the student threatens legal action? What if the student’s behavior is disruptive to me? What if the student’s behavior is disruptive to the class? 14

What to Do When a Student’s Psychiatric Disability Results in Inappropriate Behavior While being sensitive to the psychiatric disorders that students may have, it is equally important to recognize that the general rules of Walden’s official code of conduct apply to all students, regardless of presence of documented disability. There is no obligation to modify the institution’s code of conduct. Walden may handle the inappropriate conduct in the same manner as they handle such conduct when engaged in by students who do not have a disability. 15

What to Do if a Student Expresses Suicidal Ideations Policy is being written (waiting approval from Legal Team) Send the student an appropriate response via . Immediately notify your Program Director or Manager for further action and direction. Observe boundaries – (faculty role is limited) 16

The Importance of Boundaries Appropriate boundaries are important for all students, faculty, and staff at Walden Faculty are responsible for recognizing if and when boundaries are being crossed Being able to recognize when an individual has crossed appropriate boundaries is necessary, especially with someone suffering from a psychiatric disorder 17

Q & A 18

In Conclusion When in doubt, contact Disability Services Disability Services tg=ClubWelcome&cx=