Andy: Anxiety and depression accessibility persona

Andy is a 20-year old student and uses they/them pronouns. Their life motto is ‘Hakuna matata’ (which means no worries).

Andy lives with anxiety and depression. They hope to be able to complete their studies in an understanding and supportive environment.

Here are some of the things that Andy needs to be able to participate in class.

• Needs to be able to choose how they interact in class: being able to turn off their camera, or participate in class via chat or discussion board are productive ways for Andy to engage.
• Struggles when they are ‘put on the spot’: please do not cold call on this student in class. Instead, warm calling on this student (letting them know before class that you will call on them) may be a good idea.
• Benefits from content warnings: give early content warnings for sensitive topics if subject content may be triggering e.g. abuse, war, violence, Stolen Generation, particularly relevant for students with PTSD or CPTSD (Complex post-traumatic stress disorder).
• Needs time to prepare for in-class scenarios: try to make lecture and tutorial materials available online ahead of class (for all students). Let students know when they will be expected to work in groups, and allow opportunities for students to express their preferences about how they engage in groupwork.
• May use assistance aids, strategies or medication: Andy sometimes wears ear plugs to block out distracting noises, and leaves the room during classes to take short breaks. Other students with anxiety and depression might rely on an assistance animal.
• Appreciates support and encouragement: Andy may ask questions or request individual support from their teachers. They also like having the opportunity to introduce themselves and meet other students in class, early on in the session.
• Requires alternative arrangements for exams: accommodations like additional time, rest breaks, and a separate examination room or venue are all important for Andy. If Andy is experiencing significant performance anxiety that affects their ability to complete an exam, they may require an alternative assessment such as an assignment.

Here are some of the barriers that Andy deals with in daily life.

• Feels self-doubt and guilt for not being able to meet deadlines/work commitments.
• Is afraid to ask questions because they think their questions seem too easy. 
• Sometimes Andy’s peers misunderstand them and interpret their behaviour as rude and dismissive.
• Struggles to stay focused in class, whether online or on campus.

Online

• Finds that online classes can be isolating and lack social interaction, leading to increased feelings of anxiety and/or depression.
• Joining breakout rooms with random students can lead to feelings of unease.
• Worries about not knowing how to respond if a teacher calls on them without warning.
• Having their camera on for the full duration of an online class may make them feel self-conscious.

On campus

• Noisy and crowded environments can cause heightened anxiety.
• Has anxiety around in-class presentations and interactions.
• The prospect of in-person group work can be daunting.
• Breaks might not be offered during long classes.

The following resources from ADCET provide advice on supporting students who have mental health conditions.

• ADCET: Engaging online students who experience high anxiety 
• ADCET: Disability specific adjustments – Mental health condition 
• ADCET: Inclusive technology – Mental health condition 
• ADCET: Mental health condition

These Education Express resources contain information on providing appropriate accessibility accommodations.

• Attendance requirements – alternative assessments
• Accessible formats – reasonable adjustments

Please note

• Everyone’s access needs are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. 
• Other health conditions can make access needs more complex or change how they show up day to day.
• Some people may have other disabilities they don’t mention if they aren’t relevant, but these may still affect them at times.