The Student Room Group

Is taking long-term medication a valid reason for school accommodations?

I’ve recently been prescribed anxiety medication which has lately been making me feel very drowsy and disoriented, to the point where I can’t focus and often fall asleep in class. This is the first time I’ve been prescribed any medication so it could just be the intended effect of the meds or just a temporary thing while my body adjusts to it. However, either way, my GP told me that we will be trying a lot of different medications until I find one that works (especially since i can’t be prescribed antidepressants until i’m 17). So, is it unreasonable for me to ask my school if I can have certain accommodations? I was thinking being able to go to the library if I’m not feeling well enough to attend a lesson and complete my work there where it’s less overwhelming. Is this valid?
In my experience, schools are relatively accommodating for medical issues especially if you stress that this is an adjustment period and not necessarily permanent. I doubt that your school will say no on the grounds of it not being ‘serious’ enough. Most schools already have policies like this to support students with issues like anxiety. This is definitely valid, make sure you get a letter from your doctor confirming/agreeing with this and maybe ask your parent/carer to send an email. I hope things get better for you soon!

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