Whether you are taking classes, working an on-campus job, interning, or preparing for a full-time job after graduation, you deserve the best environment for you to succeed. This article is an introduction to school and work accommodations specifically in the realm of mental health.
School Accommodations
You may be eligible to request accommodations for classes if you feel that your condition significantly impacts your daily life and your ability to perform at your best. The Cornell Student Disability Services defines disability as “a condition that significantly impacts you ability to think, eat, breathe, walk, work, see, speak, learn, etc.” and works with students that may have the following conditions:
- attention deficit disorders (e.g., ADHD)
- autism spectrum disorder
- chronic medical conditions
- learning disabilities
- mental health disorders
- neurological disorders
- orthopedic conditions
- sensory conditions (hearing/vision)
- traumatic brain injury
To learn more about SDS and to meet with an SDS counselor, visit the website linked below:
Cornell Student Disability Services
Work Accommodations
Your right to be in an environment that is best suited for you to succeed continues even in the workforce. The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that “people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else”, and this includes employment environments.
If you are currently working a campus job, or will be starting a job or internship, see if you are able to request any workplace accommodations. If you are unsure what accommodations you could ask for, see a selection of links from AskJAN, the Job Accommodation Network, below to explore ideas and suggestions.
AskJAN Resources
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
To explore more disabilities and accommodations, visit https://askjan.org/a-to-z.cfm
Closing Statement
If you would like to talk more about school or workplace accommodations, feel free to see the resources above or set up an appointment with a Career Assistant. We want to support you in any way we can.
Talk/Text Resources
- CAPS or an Ithaca mental health provider
- If you are not in the Ithaca Area, try Cornell WPO (you can get free, short-term counseling through EAP) OR you can get assistance in finding mental health professionals in your area
- Let’s Talk
- Group Workshops
- Crisis Line (National): 800-273-8255
- Crisis Line (Ithaca): (607) 272-1616
- Crisis Text Line (National): Text HOME to 741741