Ann's Blog On Mental Health Issues In Schools

Ann's Blog #10:

"University and student settle mental health lawsuit" (cnn.com, November 1, 2006)

This article explains an issue that schools all around the nation are facing involving students mental health issues. It mainly focuses on a student from George Washington University who got treated for depression and was not allowed to return after his treatments because of his mental problems. The student, Jordan Nott, said that he started having suicidal thoughts after another student from George Washington University committed suicide. After having these thoughts he was hospitalized for his problems. The school refused to allow him to return because they claimed that he was dangerous. In defense, Jordan says that his conditions are involuntary and he should not be punished for them. Nevertheless, he was forced to transfer to another school a few months after. Prior to this there was a lawsuit between Jordan and the school, but, as of now, it seems that they have reached an agreement.

Alrighty then...How about not letting diabetics into good ol' George Washington University either? To me it is the same thing, both could be classified as diseases, both are involuntary, and both are treatable. I understand the concerns with the fact that depression could lead to violence, but Jordan Nott was treated. Even if he had not have already been treated I would still say that he should be allowed to attend classes at whichever university he chooses. Refuse him because of that B- in chemistry, not because he has a clinical case of depression. If Jordan has proven himself acceptable to attend, then his being hospitalized should not hinder his chances of an optimal education. I personally know students from my highschool who suffer from depression and they are by no means less qualified to attend a college than myself, or someone who wasn't depressed. Their only flaw is not thinking highly of themselves. Treatment helps these individuals alot. Another thing that helps these kids is when something good happens in their lives, an example of that being getting into a desired college. In my opinion, Depression should not prevent someone from attending a college that they wish to attend. I think that this type of discrimination is wrong and should be stopped.

Article From:
http://www.cnn.com/2006/EDUCATION/11/01/college.depression.ap/index.html
Picture of George Washington University from:
http://www.gwumc.edu/edu/medicine/images/GWUH.jpg