Students with disabilities may face difficulties when heading to classes and requesting accommodations.
In many ways, people who identify with having a disability, either physical or invisible, have yet to see their own civil rights movement.
Human rights complaints regarding matters of disability topped the list of concerns last year, according to the Centre for Human Rights’ annual report.
[su_pullquote align=”right”]Consultations for matters of disability were only second to general administrative policies, while disability complaints totalled 23 per cent of all complaints.[/su_pullquote]
Students are instructed to deliver accommodation letters to each of their course directors early in the term.
According to Counselling and Disability Services, “if course directors receive a letter of accommodation from a student (it will name the student, the disability counsellor at CDS, and reference the human rights code), they need to make every effort to accommodate the student.”
These letters will state the recommended classroom and exam accommodations that are meant to “level the playing field” for students with disabilities. In other words, it allows students to demonstrate their mastery of the course content without being penalized for their disability.
Kyle Catto, a TA and PhD candidate in the department of political science, says accessing supports are imperative to success.
“It helps to have someone in your corner who really knows and understands the challenges you face,” he says.
You have to remind yourself that no matter how bad things seem, no matter how downtrodden or exhausted you feel, things can be better, Catto adds.
[su_quote]“Never be afraid to ask for help. It took me the better part of 10 years and a series of breakdowns before I finally realized I was not alright and needed help, but once I asked for it, I’ve never looked back.”[/su_quote]
Symptoms such as increased anxiety, inability to cope, social withdrawal, or other behavioural changes could be caused by underlying mental health issues.
Janet Morrison, vice provost students, says CDS services are open and available for all students and encourages anyone who is suffering through their academic studies to utilize the services that are available.
“With specific regard to services for students, personal counselling is open and offering individual and group sessions,” says Morrison.
[su_quote]“I am encouraging every member of the York learning community to reflect on the five ways to wellbeing. Be active, take notice, keep learning, give, and connect. Students with specific questions or concerns should contact vpstdnts@yorku.ca. We’re here to help.”[/su_quote]
In addition, personal counselling is available to all students who need to talk about their issues and concerns, not just those with a diagnosed condition. CDS councillors often advocate on students’ behalf who feel they are being discriminated against.
Staff speak to students regularly regarding a wide-range of issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, abuse, self-esteem, relationships, body image issues, and sexuality.
If you or someone you know is having difficulties and may need to speak to a counsellor, please visit the CDS website for more information.
Meagan Rènah, Contributor & Ryan Moore, News Editor
Featured image courtesy of Michael Zusev
