Psychological Disabilities

Students with psychiatric disabilities may display a variety of behaviors in class depending upon the type of disability with which they may be challenged. Like those with other disabilities, these students may attempt to keep their disability hidden. For some students their disability will not effect their success in the class. However, in some cases, the student’s disability may manifest itself in negative or self-defeating behaviors. Examples of these behaviors might show in a student who appears stressed and unable to cope, has low frustration levels, seems distracted and forgetful, and handles constructive criticism poorly.

One of the most common psychological disabilities among students is depression. The disability may be temporary or it may be a pathological sense of hopelessness or helplessness. Anxiety, as separate from major depression, is also prevalent among students and may be the transient reaction to stress.