Abstract
Despite policies providing resources to students with disabilities (SWD), high school and college SWD are diagnosed with co-occurring mental health disorders (D/MH) at higher rates than their peers without disabilities. As these adolescents transition into young adulthood, education professionals become increasingly important in providing support and resources. As such, the purpose of this study was to examine high school and higher education professionals’ perceptions related to factors exacerbating mental health among students with D/MH and barriers in supporting students with D/MH. Using a basic interpretive approach, researchers analyzed data from interviews and focus groups. Participants identified (a) missed diagnosis and unmet needs, (b) academic and social pressure, and (c) high school transition as factors exacerbating student mental health needs. They identified (a) professional tension, (b) limited training and professional development, and (c) structural barriers in schools as barriers limiting ability to support students with D/MH. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Keywords: disability, mental health, young adult, college, high school
