Best College Accommodations for Students With Anxiety

5 Types of College Accommodations for Students With Anxiety

Navigating school with anxiety can feel like an uphill battle, but knowing what accommodations are available can make a world of difference. In this article, we’ll cover five of the best college accommodations for anxiety, each designed to support your academic journey and help you manage stress.

1. Academic adjustments

Ever felt like time limits make tests 10 times more stressful? Academic adjustments and accommodations are designed to reduce stress and give you the time and space you need to do your best. Ask your advisor which of these benefits are available to you:

• Extended test times: If racing against the clock worsens your anxiety, see if you can request extra time to complete exams.
• Quiet exam spaces: A noisy exam hall can be overwhelming — many schools offer smaller, quieter rooms for test taking.
• Flexible deadlines: Some professors or teaching assistants may allow extra time for you to complete your exams or other assignments.
• Modified attendance policies: If anxiety makes it hard to attend every class, you might be able to work out a more flexible schedule.

2. Classroom modifications

Participating in class or keeping up with fast-paced lectures can be tough when anxiety kicks in. Classroom accommodations can help create a learning environment that allows you to absorb information comfortably and participate in ways that feel manageable to you. Here’s what modifications you can request:

• Note-taking assistance: Some schools provide peer note-takers or professor-approved lecture notes so you can focus on understanding the material instead of frantically scribbling everything down.
• Recorded lectures: Ever felt like you missed half of what was said in class? Having access to recorded lectures allows you to revisit the material at your own pace and review sections when you’re in a better headspace.
• Alternative formats for course materials: If dense textbooks or lengthy reading assignments seem like too much, ask about alternative formats like audiobooks or digital versions that allow you to engage with the material in a more accessible way.

3. Mental health resources

You don’t have to manage your anxiety alone — some of the best college accommodations for anxiety can be accessed through campus mental health resources. Many colleges provide free or low-cost college mental health resources, designed to help you cope with stress and maintain your well-being. Ask your resident advisor or a trusted professor about:

• On-campus counseling services: Many schools offer counseling services where you can talk to a licensed professional who understands the pressures of college life and can help you develop coping skills for anxiety.
• Peer support groups: Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone on your journey makes all the difference. See if your college or university offers peer-led or professional-facilitated groups for students to support one another.
• Peer mentorship programs: Some schools offer mentorship programs to connect you with other students or alumni who have been in your shoes. These programs can connect you with others who’ve successfully managed stress and anxiety in college and can offer advice and encouragement.

4. Environmental adjustments

Your surroundings play a major role in how you feel each day, and even small changes can make a big difference. If your current college environment is adding to your stress, consider requesting adjustments that make life on campus more comfortable. These might include:

• Room changes: If a noisy dorm room is making it harder to relax or focus, you may be able to switch to a quieter building or request a private room
• Seating arrangements: Crowded lecture halls can be distracting and anxiety-inducing. Sitting near a door or toward the front of the class can make it feel less stressful and more manageable. Give yourself plenty of time to get to class so you can pick your seat early.
• Low-stress spaces on campus: If you’re struggling with social anxiety in college, sometimes, you just need a place to breathe. Many university libraries have quiet study areas, wellness rooms, or sensory-friendly spaces where you can take a break or simply reset.

5. Supportive technology

Technology can serve as a powerful tool for managing anxiety and staying on top of academic responsibilities. Many colleges offer tech-based accommodations for students with anxiety. Consider requesting:

• Apps for anxiety management: Some schools offer free subscriptions to meditation, mindfulness, or therapy apps.
• Study aids: Speech-to-text software, focus timers, or organization apps can help you stay on track.
• Online counseling options: If in-person therapy feels daunting, virtual sessions can be a great alternative.

How To Request Accommodations for Anxiety

Advocating for yourself can feel intimidating, but you deserve the support you need to succeed in college. Many colleges have a formal process for requesting accommodations and knowing the steps you need to take ahead of time can make the process smoother. Whether you’re just starting the conversation or following up on a request, here’s how to navigate the process with confidence:

1. Contact the disabilities services office

This office is your go-to resource for accommodations. Start by visiting your school’s disabilities services website and scheduling an appointment to discuss your needs. Some schools will allow you to submit requests online, while others may require an in-person meeting. Most colleges have an office dedicated to providing accommodations for students with anxiety and other mental and physical health challenges.

2. Provide documentation

Your school may require a letter from a qualified mental health professional explaining how your anxiety affects your academic performance. Not all licensed professionals are able to provide a formal anxiety diagnosis, so it’s important to check with your school about their specific requirements. If you don’t have documentation yet, consider reaching out to your school’s counseling center for guidance on next steps.

3. Be clear about what you need

Be prepared to explain specific challenges you face and how certain accommodations will help you overcome them. Think about situations where anxiety has impacted your ability to complete assignments, participate in class, or take exams. Writing down your concerns beforehand can help you stay organized and clearly communicate your needs when the moment comes.

Advocating for yourself can feel daunting, especially if you have social anxiety, but it’s a crucial step in getting the help you need. Meeting with an academic advisor or other trusted faculty member on campus can help you understand what you can ask for. They can help advocate on your behalf, too.

4. Communicate with your professors

Once your accommodations for anxiety are approved, you may need to talk with your professors about how they will be implemented. Sending a short email or setting up a quick email can ensure that expectations are clear on both ends. You don’t have to disclose personal details — just let them know what accommodations you’ll be using. Clear and concise communication is the best way to make sure things run smoothly throughout the semester.

5. Review and adjust as needed

Accommodations are meant to support you, so if something isn’t working, don’t hesitate to request changes. Follow up with the disability office or your professors if you need modifications. If your anxiety symptoms change over time, you may be eligible for additional accommodations as well.

Getting the help you need starts with knowing who to turn to and what to say. If your anxiety is holding you back from advocating for yourself, turn to a trusted family member, friend, or faculty member for help navigating these types of conversations.

Get Professional Support for Navigating Anxiety in College

Anxiety in college is real, but you don’t have to bear the burden alone. Having the right accommodations is just one piece of the puzzle — seeking professional support can be just as important in managing anxiety in college.

Online therapy platforms like Talkspace provide accessible treatment options designed for students dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Whether you’re struggling with overwhelming anxiety, need guidance on requesting accommodations, or just want someone to talk to, online therapy for teens and young adults is a convenient and effective option for busy college students.

Talkspace also offers online anxiety treatment to help you manage your anxiety and thrive in college. With the right support and resources, you can develop lifelong strategies for managing anxiety in college and beyond.