Hello. This question is directed at current Cambridge students, if possible, but if anyone would like to give some advice that would be very helpful
I am a 2015 offer holder. Recently, my college sent me a form that would be used to declare a disability. I didn't declare it on my UCAS form, but I've suffered from depression since October 2013, which has fluctuated in intensity from being completely incapable of functioning for several weeks at a time, to longer periods of low-level depression where I can complete work etc but just with a persistent low mood, which has been the case for a majority of my A-Levels. Unfortunately, it hasn't gone away yet, but I am very optimistic that by October things might be looking better. I know there shouldn't be any stigma at all, but I can't help feeling ashamed and embarrassed to admit it -- (I do not hold stigma towards other sufferers at all, because I understand what they are going through - it's just difficult to accept that your own mood is beyond your control, if you understand me). I would rather people didn't know, especially before they know me as a person. Therefore, I'm reluctant to disclose it on the form, not least because I really feel I might be so much better with a new start - genuinely, my school environment has been toxic, and I think this might be in part responsible for the continuance of these feelings.
I do not receive ongoing treatment for depression; however, I have been formally diagnosed by my GP, and my school are aware. Because I don't receive treatment, I don't see how informing the university will better the situation, because I do not have ongoing support as it stands, so I won't be bereft if I don't receive any as a result of not declaring it on the form.
If I did fill out the form, would the Cambridge tutors prejudge me, or think badly of me, in your experience? I don't know anything about the environment at all, but I've read things (I know they are probably rumours!) about Cambridge being unsupportive and judgemental about mental illness, and I'm just a little nervous.
This is unrelated to my decision on whether to declare it or not, but I'm entering a bit of a rough patch at the moment (conveniently less than two weeks before my exams!!!) and despite lots of work, I'm recognising the signs of another spiral downwards. I'm going to speak to my GP tomorrow. If I do miss my offer by one grade, do you think they will take me anyway, if you have any anecdotal evidence or experience on this matter? My interview went relatively okay in my opinion -- not amazing, but half-decent -- and I got high UMS last year. Maybe it's bit optimistic to hope that they will?
Anyway, thanks very much. I'd really appreciate advice or opinions