Documentation Guidelines for Mental Health Disorders
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADA AA) revised in 2008, the term "disability" includes (a) a mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual; (b) a record of such an impairment; or (c) being regarded as having such an impairment. The ADA further defines mental impairment to include any mental or psychological disorders such as emotional or mental illness. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is frequently used as guidance for identifying psychiatric, behavioral, and mental health disorders. However, not all conditions listed in the DSM are disabilities or even impairments for purposes of the ADA.
Students requesting accommodations based on a qualifying diagnosis must submit current, detailed documentation from an appropriately qualified or licensed healthcare professional who is:
- qualified to diagnosis the condition and is currently or recently associated with the student in a healthcare professional/patient relationship
- familiar with the challenges and functional limitations of the condition and possible impact on access to the college environment
- an impartial evaluator or diagnostician who is not a family member nor in a dual relationship with the student
- qualified to verify the presence of a condition that rises to the level of a disability and confirms the need for reasonable accommodations based on the diagnosed condition.
The evaluation/report must include the following information:
- Submission on professional letterhead with the date of the evaluation/report (within twelve months of entering college), signature, title, and professional credentials
- A clear statement of diagnosis, including evidence that symptoms currently meet DSM-5 criteria in nature and severity
- A professional determination or opinion that the diagnosed condition rises to the level of a disability
- Information regarding any formal assessments and data that may have been completed as part of the evaluation
- Summary of present levels of functioning
- Summary of clinical and observational data, as well as, previous disability documentation findings
- Age of onset of the disorder and a comprehensive history of presenting problems
- Medical information including the current treatment plan, effectiveness, and the duration and frequency of the therapeutic relationship
- Medical information regarding medications prescribed (compliance, side effects, and positive or negative responses)
- Recommendations for accommodations that include a clear rationale between key components of the diagnosed condition and the accommodation requested
- A list and discussion of past accommodations received and their effectiveness
