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Talk to one of the RCPD specialists. Though it may sound trite, you'll be glad you did.
-Joyce Giampalmi, Anita Giampalmi Scholarship Founder

Psychiatric Disabilities

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Welcome

Michigan State University provides academic and workplace services and accommodations to individuals with psychiatric disabilities. A psychiatric disability is a diagnosed mental illness or disorder that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning and performing essential job functions. (more information about psychiatric disabilities).

Services available through RCPD include: discussion of possible accommodations based on psychiatric evaluation, written certification of eligibility for accommodations, and assistance developing strategies for achieving desired levels of academic, employment and personal success. Full-time disability specialists coordinate disability type programs, and are also available for consultation to evaluate and address the needs of students, faculty and employees.

Getting Started with RCPD (MyProfile)

Log on to the MyProfile page with your MSU NetID and password to register with the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities. MyProfile provides online forms and initiates communication with a Disability Specialist.

Documentation

Documentation required to verify the condition and severity, includes completion of the Psychiatric/Psychological Disability Documentation form or provision of equivalent information to the RCPD by a medical professional with appropriate training and credentials.

After documentation of a disability has been provided and a needs assessment is completed, reasonable accommodations are determined. RCPD will provide a verification letter that includes: (a) verification of disability and status as a student or employee registered with the RCPD (b) an outline of reasonable accommodations.

Students will receive a Verified Individualized Services and Accommodations letter, otherwise known as a VISA.

Confidentiality

RCPD adheres to strict standards of confidentiality in the management of student information. Since RCPD is the only holder of disability documentation, all disability-related documentation should be directed to RCPD (not other campus departments).

Requesting Accommodations

RCPD recognizes that accommodations may be required in order to assist individuals in maximizing their educational and workplace experience at MSU. While the university is required to provide reasonable accommodations, it is not required to change essential academic requirements or job functions.

Before Requesting Accommodations, students and employees must Identify and Register as a person with a disability and provide appropriate documentation of their disability to RCPD. Employees should refer to the Reasonable Accommodations Policy for University Applicants and Employees, for the procedure on requesting worksite accommodations.

Students and employees with a psychiatric disability may be eligible to receive the following accommodations facilitated by RCPD:

Resources

Building Community

MSU provides many venues for collaboration and community building on disability issues. Please consider becoming involved in organizations including:

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have further questions that have not been answered on this page, please refer to the Psychiatric Disabilities FAQ.

The Specialist Spotlight

"Get Connected" in May and Boost Your Mental Health

Mental Health America Challenges Each American this May to the Mental Health Connection Challenge

Contact: Eileen Sexton, (703) 837-4783 or esexton@mentalhealthamerica.net

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (April 1, 2008)-In observance of 2008 May is Mental Health Month, Mental Health America is encouraging Americans to build their social support networks throughout May to protect and improve their mental health. Mental Health America challenges all Americans to the Mental Health Connection Challenge by making FIVE positive and life-fulfilling connections. Research shows that social networks can reduce stress and promote overall health by providing a sense of belonging, self-worth and security.

"We all need to maintain positive connections to feel a part of our communities and families, which is why this May, Mental Health America is challenging every American to connect to family & friends, coworkers, community members and professional help, if needed," said David Shern, Ph.D., president & CEO of Mental Health America. "Years of research have shown that individuals who feel valued and cared for are better equipped to deal with stress and adversity and even experience less severe illnesses than those with little social support."

Mental Health America's Mental Health Connection Challenge:

  • Connect To Family & Friends - Loved ones are an important source of support and encouragement. Talk to them when you need extra help, allow them to provide guidance and be prepared to help them when they need you.
  • Connect To Coworkers - Given the amount of time we dedicate to work, healthy relationships with coworkers are a must. Spend a lunch hour with officemates or reach out to someone you haven't talked to in a while to take a walk or grab coffee.
  • Connect To Community Members - Shifting from your own issues to the needs of others can be a healthy change of pace. Select a faith-based organization, school, long-term care facility or non-profit group that needs your help and pitch in.
  • Connect To Yourself - Taking time for yourself can decrease stress and improve health and relationships. Try meditating, exercising, enjoying a hobby or reading a book. Whatever you choose, it's your time, so spend it doing something you enjoy.
  • Connect To Professional Help - If you're feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope, reach out to a mental health professional. For a referral to local services, contact Mental Health America or your local Mental Health America affiliate at 800-969-6642 and www.mentalhealthamerica.net

Mental Health America founded May is Mental Health Month 50 years ago to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of mental health for all. This year's theme, "Get Connected" is focused on the important role social connectedness plays in maintaining and protecting mental health and wellness.

Mental Health America is the country's leading nonprofit dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives. With our more than 320 affiliates nationwide, we represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation-everyday and in times of crisis.

Contact Information

John Pedraza

John Pedraza

Psychiatric Disabilities
(517) 884-1906


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