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Mental health support at NTU

Hi everyone,

I'm currently in my second year at NTU, and I'm facing some challenges with my mental health.

Last week, I was diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, and suspected autism, and I'm now waiting for medication. I've missed several workshops, but I always make sure to catch up with the online content and keep my lecturers updated, as I find that approach easier. I struggle to focus during sessions because they can be overwhelming with information and I often need to repeat tasks for them to stick and for me to learn effectively.

I spoke to one of my lecturers about my difficulties with a new software program, and I was told, "Sorry to hear that. You just need to work harder." This response left me feeling deflated, as I feel like I’m already working as hard as I can and often end up burning out.

To make matters worse, because I chose a specific module, I’ve been automatically placed into workshops that I struggled with in my first year and don’t enjoy. It’s not aligned with what I want to learn or the direction I want to take.

I've contacted my lead tutor and arranged a discussion with an advisor, but I’m not feeling very positive about it. Has anyone else faced similar struggles or have any advice on what steps I should take?

Thank you!
Original post
by Caterpillar09
Hi everyone,

I'm currently in my second year at NTU, and I'm facing some challenges with my mental health.

Last week, I was diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, and suspected autism, and I'm now waiting for medication. I've missed several workshops, but I always make sure to catch up with the online content and keep my lecturers updated, as I find that approach easier. I struggle to focus during sessions because they can be overwhelming with information and I often need to repeat tasks for them to stick and for me to learn effectively.

I spoke to one of my lecturers about my difficulties with a new software program, and I was told, "Sorry to hear that. You just need to work harder." This response left me feeling deflated, as I feel like I’m already working as hard as I can and often end up burning out.

To make matters worse, because I chose a specific module, I’ve been automatically placed into workshops that I struggled with in my first year and don’t enjoy. It’s not aligned with what I want to learn or the direction I want to take.

I've contacted my lead tutor and arranged a discussion with an advisor, but I’m not feeling very positive about it. Has anyone else faced similar struggles or have any advice on what steps I should take?

Thank you!

I think the best thing and most important thing to do is to contact the disability services at university who will be able to set up a support plan for you. I would also recommend applying for Disabled Students Allowance, as you may be able to receive additional support funded by the government.

I know this won't change that particular lecturer's attitude, but hopefully will make other things easier.

Reply 2

Original post
by flowersinmyhair
I think the best thing and most important thing to do is to contact the disability services at university who will be able to set up a support plan for you. I would also recommend applying for Disabled Students Allowance, as you may be able to receive additional support funded by the government.
I know this won't change that particular lecturer's attitude, but hopefully will make other things easier.


Thank you for your response! I’ve arranged a meeting with an adviser and applied for DSA, hopefully they can help with further support.
Hi @Caterpillar09 ,

We're glad to hear you've reached out to our Disability support team! We have specific resources available for ADHD support, and the team should be able to assist you in navigating an access statement - This will cover the adjustments that your course can make to help support you, including any support in workshops or with specific tools/software.

We have some more information available about the Disabled Students Allowance here as well if you've not seen it already, but I would definitely keep your tutor in the loop if you experience any further issues as you navigate the process.

I hope this helps, let us know if you have any questions!

-Yaz

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