Adults with disabilities report experiencing frequent mental distress almost 5 times as often as adults without disabilities. Compounding the issue of discrimination, many people with disabilities experience physical challenges including immobility or extreme pain, and social challenges such as isolation or being excluded from invitations to social events and recreational activities that are extended to others. Managing these types of obstacles can take a toll on a person’s mental health. 

Fact: In 2018, an estimated 17.4 million (32.9%) adults with disabilities experienced frequent mental distress, defined as 14 or more reported mentally unhealthy days in the past 30 days.  

Resources Guide for Students with Psychiatric Disabilities (Best Colleges): For students with mental health conditions, successfully transitioning through college rests on a number of factors. Learn how to succeed.

Applying for Disability Benefits with a Mental Illness (Mental Health Association of Maryland): Mental and psychological disabilities are among the conditions that can qualify for benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). You may qualify with severe depression, bipolar disorder, an anxiety disorder, or another mental illness that prevents you from maintaining gainful employment.

UMB Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Resource Page: UMB is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. On this page, you'll find resources on campus accommodations and accessibility. 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Through Partnership Development Group: Information regarding the different DBT therapy options as well as information regarding PDG's DBT programs.

Supported Employment for People Living with a Mental Health Disability: Informational page about supported employment and behavioral health services through the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Rehabilitation Services.

People with Disabilities Resources - NAMI: This resource page supplies information regarding the barriers to mental health care, how to find the right mental health treatment team, and additional resources.

Why we need Mental Health Professionals with Disabilities - The Mighty: This editorial was written by a mental health professional who practices with a disability and discusses their journey through graduate school as someone with a disability.

Disabled Hikers: A program that advocates for inclusion and accessibility in the outdoors, guided by disability justice principles.

Campus Resources:

Educational Support and Disability Services (ESDS): ESDS works with students with all types of disabilities including physical, learning, sensory, psychological, ADHD, and chronic and acute medical conditions. The office coordinates services to assist students with disabilities in obtaining reasonable accommodations through an interactive process involving the student and the school.