Managing disabilities as students on campus. A disability is any impediment to the mental and/or physical well-being of a person. A renowned global music icon who has a disability – Stevie Wonder, once said “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes does not mean he lacks vision”. The conversation around disabilities usually surrounds physical deformities that render the human being almost incapable of regular function, but it would interest you to know that disabilities do not affect physical bodies alone.
In most societies, they are generally more aware of physical disabilities and their empathy sort of becomes more obligatory, as opposed to a mentally disabled person. This frankly does little for young adult students in universities anyway. As a university student, a lot of stigma already surrounds you left right, and center, when it is not stigma, it is an annoyingly high trope of pity parties, people find it hard to show empathy without making a charity case of the people they have empathy towards, and all you would ever want in the deepest recesses of your heart is to live a life with a sense of normalcy. Universities can seriously test the resolve of a student who lives with a disability, you begin to consider whether schooling is even worth the hassle.
This article will explore the challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly those with physical disabilities, in higher educational institutions. It will provide guidance on navigating these challenges during your time in academia and beyond, in the wider world.
Mental Disability.
A student may have disabilities that are unseen by the naked eye, and that are typically clinically diagnosed such as neurodevelopmental disorders, Depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD – Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and anxiety disorders, etc. These can be challenging to deal with and more often than not you face a lot of stigma and rights violations because first of all, it is not detectable and whenever you present as mentally challenged, other students see you as weird rather than a person who is merely exhibiting a character beyond your control. You could be a regular student this minute and in the next, you are seemingly not.
Physical Disability.
These are often more pronounced as you cannot hide from your disability, it is glaring and all eyes, including yours can see it. This disability ranges from blindness, deafness poliomyelitis, epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, cerebral palsy, and amputation. These disabilities affect not only mentally but also physically.
Challenges You Face Daily As A Disabled Student On Campus.
- You will experience the ‘look’. Yes, The look! Everywhere you go, you will get that
look, like you’re a freak of nature. Do not be perturbed, they will get used to it. The
negative attitude of people who have prejudices against disabled people of any kind
will get to you. - You will not exactly experience ease of movement when you’re an amputee, for
instance. - Disabled students. For example, most African universities face a significant lack of facilities tailored to their needs, suggesting that the education system did not anticipate their presence. As a result, these students encounter numerous challenges in navigating the schooling experience. Blind students struggle due to the absence of braille materials, while deaf and mute students lack teachers proficient in sign language. Additionally, physically disabled students face difficulties in movement due to the lack of accessible walkways. This exclusionary environment has led to a limited representation of disabled individuals in universities.
A renowned global music icon who has a disability – Stevie Wonder, once said “Just because
a man lacks the use of his eyes does not mean he lacks vision”
HOW TO MANAGE DISABILITY.
Choose Expressiveness.
It’s easy to feel isolated among other students, especially those without disabilities because you might worry that your confidence is at risk due to your disadvantages. However, this shouldn’t stop you from expressing yourself. Be friendly, make friends, and express your emotions wisely and responsibly. Being disabled doesn’t make you any less human, and the idea that you’re expected to be less productive is untrue. It’s just a trick to prevent you from achieving great things. So, whenever you have the opportunity, put yourself out there and see the respect you earn for yourself.
Adjustment Is Another Way Of Managing Disabilities As a Student On Campus.
Moving from home where you have a reasonable amount of care and devotion to your personal needs to a place where you basically fend for yourself (if your family cannot afford extra help with you at school), adjusting can be challenging but you must adjust. First in your mind by coming to terms with your new realities as it affects your disability and then see to it that you adjust to your living as such. For instance, make adjustments in terms of proximity to school and class. It is advisable to have a room close by and outsource your chores if you can afford it, but if you cannot, this is where profitable friendships with your schoolmates will suffice.
Have A Support System.
Having a strong support system both within and outside the university is absolutely essential and non-negotiable. If you follow the Christian faith, attending fellowships provides you with a sense of family beyond your immediate relatives who are there to take care of you in various small ways. Additionally, joining school associations and being active in them can also be beneficial. Moreover, for those who are part of the Muslim community, finding support and solace in the mosque can provide a similar sense of belonging and assistance.
Seeking For Clinical Assistance Is Another Way Of Managing Disabilities.
Living with disabilities (physical) can be discouraging to your mental health. Yes, you can think that it is a physical impediment, but it takes a toll on you when you are daily faced with the reality of your condition. It is therefore imperative that you meet with a therapist or any mental health expert from time to time, usually to unwind and let off mental steam. Your mental health should be taken utmost care of as you navigate university life.
Believe In Yourself.
As hackneyed as this line appears, you do need to believe in your abilities. You have got to form a belief system around all that you are and are capable of, understanding that there are no limitations to a person with a firm resolve. Yes, you have limitations, but understanding that they are stepping stones to greatness will help your mind.
Maximizing Technology Is A Great Way To Managing Disabilities.
There are various technologies available that can greatly assist individuals with disabilities, making their lives easier and more accessible. One example is the range of features offered by iOS devices, such as iPhones and iPads. These devices have built-in voice command capabilities, allowing users to control their devices and perform various tasks without needing to physically interact with the screen. This feature is especially helpful for individuals with physical disabilities or limited mobility. Also, this should not act as a distraction to you.
Having A Life Is Another Way Of Managing Disabilities.
This is a passionate appeal to have a social life amidst schoolwork. Make time for extracurricular/social activities, join music clubs, and join art clubs. Live and love and learn.
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