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Bipolar Disorder/Bipolar Disorder - Law School
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Question
Hi Jennifer,
I've also been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I am type II and am also considered to possibly have ADHD. Currently I receive SSD and am attending an undergrad program with my major in philosophy and minors in literature and psychology. I have a 3.3 gpa and am one year away from graduating. I also, however, have 12 withdrawals on my transcript and have been attending school on and off since 1998. I'd like to attend law school and have just signed up for some prep classes for the LSAT.
I really don't know how to approach law schools with my given background. I almost feel like I may be thinking unrealistically because I do require some time to learn my subjects. How do I find schools that would first, be willing to even accept me and then second also be able to cater to my needs as a disabled student? I wish this information was more accessible. Maybe there's an organization I should reach? Thanks
http://www.disability.gov/
http://www.ada.gov/
The links above should send you to two websites that will help you start your search for information and resources that can guide you in reaching your goal of attending law school. Most schools offer a part time program for law students, and if you can prove that you're disabled you should qualify for services through the disabled students program on campus. If you haven't contacted them at your current institution, I would recommend doing so prior to the next term so that you will be able to show that on your records, something that will be helpful to have to show the admissions representatives of schools where you apply to for your J.D.. You should look around and decide on what schools you want to submit an application to attend law school with, and determine what each school requires for prospective students - since the majority has these things posted on their websites, it shouldn't be difficult to find out.
Withdrawls, even when there are a number of them, may or may not affect the school's decision in a negative manner; when they occurred, how long ago, and whether you can demonstrate that you have been able to successfully move past the problem and will be likely to successfully complete a law school program if admitted are factors that will be considered. There are opportunities for disabled students to be mentored by disabled lawyers; some are through the bar association in a jurisdiction, some are through a law school, but the best source of information in this area is probably the campus disabled student services program for the campus where you're already attending classes.
Let me know if I can help you with anything else.
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Answers by Expert:
Jennifer
Expertise
I am available to answer questions of a general nature about bipolar disorder, provide online resources that address bipolar disorder in a more in-depth manner and sources to serve as a starting point for those looking for substantial information on the illness from a healthcare professional approach. I am not a doctor or a psychiatrist, my background is based in personal experience and extensive reading in my own process of understanding my diagnosis. I can also take questions that deal with the social issues surrounding bipolar disorder such as relationships; coping for family, friends, and the patient; marriage, choosing to start a family and related. Answers to questions of a legal nature will provide general information but anyone with a serious legal problem should consult an attorney licensed to practice in their jurisdiction.
Experience
I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder type II in 2000; as a SSI beneficiary, have experience and knowledge of the limitations and processes involved with the program; I understand the moods, the feelings, the worries, the doubts, and a lot more that there's not enough room to express - from the personal experiences of being bipolar. I have first-hand experience with the challenges of returning to college following hospitalizations and various combinations of medications that were tried before my doctor and I finally arrived at the most effective medication program for my treatment. My family and I have learned so much about each other in the process of dealing with the highs and lows that followed my diagnosis. I've had relationships with someone who also is bipolar and someone that is not - romantic relationships are no easier on either side! I feel that many of the ideas and beliefs that people have regarding bipolar disorder and those who have the condition promote the continuation of social stigmas associated with mental illness in general, and after learning from others with bipolar disorder, hope to guide others who may be trying to navigate the government health care system,& share information on other possible means of obtaining assistance with the cost of medications and/or mental health services and limited financial assistance programs for meeting basic living expenses for qualified individuals, dealing with problems from or with family & loved ones, co-occurring substance abuse problems, medications and side-effects (and when it feels like nothing will work, or why it's not helping the situation to ask whether or not a patient has taken their 'meds' when they seem hostile or moody to those around them).
Education/Credentials
I have a B.A. in Liberal Arts and will earn my J.D. upon completion of the Spring 2011 term after which I will be preparing to take the multi-state bar exam.
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