DSA for autism (and anxiety)
I’m going to uni in September and I’ve just been told about DSA from one of my unis. I feel a little weird applying for it because my parents can afford things like laptops but apparently you also get support?
I have no idea what I really need - I was diagnosed with Asperger’s/ASD three years ago and “support” has come in the form of a few second-rate therapists who did absolutely nothing.
If you’re autistic and have DSA, can you tell me what support you got from the DSA and how it helped? I’m really crap at knowing what I need help with but I have a suspicion I’m going to struggle.
Also, I’ve had treatment for anxiety for about a decade but never an official diagnosis. Is it worth pursuing a diagnosis so I can get help with that? Because I have the treatment already but no paper confirming that I need the help.
Thank you very much!
I have no idea what I really need - I was diagnosed with Asperger’s/ASD three years ago and “support” has come in the form of a few second-rate therapists who did absolutely nothing.
If you’re autistic and have DSA, can you tell me what support you got from the DSA and how it helped? I’m really crap at knowing what I need help with but I have a suspicion I’m going to struggle.
Also, I’ve had treatment for anxiety for about a decade but never an official diagnosis. Is it worth pursuing a diagnosis so I can get help with that? Because I have the treatment already but no paper confirming that I need the help.
Thank you very much!
Reply 1
Original post by Squidgy087
I’m going to uni in September and I’ve just been told about DSA from one of my unis. I feel a little weird applying for it because my parents can afford things like laptops but apparently you also get support?
I have no idea what I really need - I was diagnosed with Asperger’s/ASD three years ago and “support” has come in the form of a few second-rate therapists who did absolutely nothing.
If you’re autistic and have DSA, can you tell me what support you got from the DSA and how it helped? I’m really crap at knowing what I need help with but I have a suspicion I’m going to struggle.
Also, I’ve had treatment for anxiety for about a decade but never an official diagnosis. Is it worth pursuing a diagnosis so I can get help with that? Because I have the treatment already but no paper confirming that I need the help.
Thank you very much!
I have no idea what I really need - I was diagnosed with Asperger’s/ASD three years ago and “support” has come in the form of a few second-rate therapists who did absolutely nothing.
If you’re autistic and have DSA, can you tell me what support you got from the DSA and how it helped? I’m really crap at knowing what I need help with but I have a suspicion I’m going to struggle.
Also, I’ve had treatment for anxiety for about a decade but never an official diagnosis. Is it worth pursuing a diagnosis so I can get help with that? Because I have the treatment already but no paper confirming that I need the help.
Thank you very much!
Hey there @Squidgy087 I hope that you are well!
I am both a University Rep and a student who has been involved with DSA as an Autistic student.
DSA is very helpful when keeping communications with the university and trying to make your experience easier. You will have to have a chat with a individual who's purpose is to understand what particular requirements you need for your studies. For example, they may provide you with helpful software or a laptop better tailored to your needs.
The DSA team may also refer you to a advisor for your needs. By doing this, they can make sure you get the correct attention and make sure you are cared in the best ways possible.
I hope this helps!
Brandon - Student Rep
Typically you will be offered a package of assistive technology, a mentor and a study skills advisor. The mentoring can be more focused around time management, planning and prioritising workload but can also be someone to talk to about any worries you have and to discuss strategies to manage any problems. Study Skills will focus on your academic work, hwo to study at undergraduate level, making sure you address the question, use correct referencing etc.
A diagnosis of anxiety wouldn't get you any additional support from DSA but should mean your allocated mentor has qualifications in Mental Health so can provide more support in that area. If you do get a diagnosis you will need your GP to complete a medical evidence form to submit this to DSA, your GP will charge for this, probably around £40.
A diagnosis of anxiety wouldn't get you any additional support from DSA but should mean your allocated mentor has qualifications in Mental Health so can provide more support in that area. If you do get a diagnosis you will need your GP to complete a medical evidence form to submit this to DSA, your GP will charge for this, probably around £40.
Reply 3
I was in the same boat. I did not know what I needed, so in the assessment I told her everything I struggle with, and she suggested things. I was so relieved to hear about some of these assistive technologies I almost started crying. It's one of those, you don't know until someone tells you. That said, there are tons of resources on these forums and on reddit if you type in 'Student Finance DSA needs report' or something, people are discussing what they have. I have rheumatoid arthritis so I have been given software and technology to make things more 'hands free' , I feel like my study life will be changed when I receive it haha my hands hurt.
Reply 4
Original post by KatscapeCodes
I was in the same boat. I did not know what I needed, so in the assessment I told her everything I struggle with, and she suggested things. I was so relieved to hear about some of these assistive technologies I almost started crying. It's one of those, you don't know until someone tells you. That said, there are tons of resources on these forums and on reddit if you type in 'Student Finance DSA needs report' or something, people are discussing what they have. I have rheumatoid arthritis so I have been given software and technology to make things more 'hands free' , I feel like my study life will be changed when I receive it haha my hands hurt.
I also have RA and my needs assesment was on 6th march. My ergo assesment was done on 7th march. I am same like you. How long did yu wait for yur stuff ?
Reply 5
It's been taking a long time to be honest, only just getting my laptop and stuff delivered next week, so about a month after my assessment and on the same day I have the person coming round to look at my desk, chair etc.
Reply 6
Original post by Kanwal habib
I also have RA and my needs assesment was on 6th march. My ergo assesment was done on 7th march. I am same like you. How long did yu wait for yur stuff ?
What did they provide you with after the in person assessment? I am hoping for a new desk as the one I have is an awful corner desk and too high and unsuitable, but not sure if they go that far?
Reply 7
Original post by KatscapeCodes
What did they provide you with after the in person assessment? I am hoping for a new desk as the one I have is an awful corner desk and too high and unsuitable, but not sure if they go that far?
As i dont have any work station. No desk or anything. I used to sit on my bed for using laptop. So they said that i can get desk chair foot rest. Laptop stand. Keyboard mouse etc. But still, it needs to be approved by student finance. Then it will confirm. Still waiting for my confirmation letter
Reply 8
Original post by Kanwal habib
As i dont have any work station. No desk or anything. I used to sit on my bed for using laptop. So they said that i can get desk chair foot rest. Laptop stand. Keyboard mouse etc. But still, it needs to be approved by student finance. Then it will confirm. Still waiting for my confirmation letter
Thanks, they gonna be here in an hour im nervous ee
Reply 9
Just had it, she was super nice, suggested all kinds of things for me I didn't even know existed, will quite literally change my life in terms of the pain I have to deal with now. Looking forward to it all coming soon
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