From Daily Maverick · Siyabonga Goni · · 2m
Over 80% of disabled students at UWC screen positive for depression
A new study reveals alarming mental health struggles among students with disabilities at South African universities, led by a researcher whose own learning challenges shaped her calling.
In brief
A new study reveals alarming mental health struggles among students with disabilities at South African universities, led by a researcher whose own learning challenges shaped her calling. A study of disabled students at three South African universities found over eighty percent screened positive for depression, with…
Study finds alarming depression rates
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More than eighty percent of students with disabilities screened positive for depression in a new study led by researcher Amy-Jean Viljoen at the University of the Western Cape.
Viljoen's childhood shaped her mission
Viljoen grew up learning inclusion from her father, whose colleague was paralysed from the neck down. She saw disability as simply part of life, not as different.
“From a young age, I was taught about inclusion and the importance of noticing those who were seemingly left out.”
Her own struggles became her calling
Viljoen struggled academically in primary school and needed tutoring. Teachers doubted she would matriculate. Now pursuing her PhD, she advocates for overlooked disabled students in higher education.
“I had learning challenges as a child, but it doesn't define you.”
Two and a half years of research
Working with supervisor Prof Anita Padmanabhanunni, Viljoen surveyed two hundred twenty-nine undergraduates with disabilities at the University of the Western Cape, Stellenbosch University and the University of Cape Town.
The findings are sobering
Seventy-four percent screened positive for probable post-traumatic stress disorder. Fifty-five percent reported high levels of hopelessness. About sixty-nine percent experienced loneliness.
Invisible disabilities go undetected
Students with invisible disabilities like ADHD and autism spectrum disorders reported elevated distress. Many choose not to register with disability units and remain unsupported.
“There are more students nowadays with invisible disabilities like ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Unfortunately, many students choose not to register with the disability units.”
Research fills a critical gap
Previous South African research focused on barriers to access and academic accommodations. This study addresses the psychological wellbeing and mental health difficulties of disabled students.
“Much existing South African research has focused on the barriers these students face in accessing higher education, obtaining academic accommodations, and fully participating in university life.”
Universities must assess their support
Padmanabhanunni recommends universities systematically assess whether disability and mental health services are accessible, coordinated and responsive to the diversity of disabled students' experiences.
“The important question is whether these services are sufficiently accessible, coordinated and responsive to the diversity of students' experiences.”
Viljoen sees herself as an advocate
Viljoen says disabled students are the experts, not her. She sees her research as both her life's work and a way to fight for change on their behalf.
“I'm not the expert; they are the experts. And I think for me, it's such a privilege to capture the truth of what's going on.”
In short
A study of disabled students at three South African universities found over eighty percent screened positive for depression, with researchers calling for better mental health support services.
