Depression Discrimination: Are Suicidal College Students Protected by the American with Disabilities Act?

Recently, college students nationwide have faced suspension after seeking treatment for suicidal thoughts. The dual aim of these suspensions is to protect the campus community from harm and the college from liability. However, the practice of removing severely depressed students raises questions about whether suspension for these reasons is a violation of federal disability laws. This Note focuses on the protections and accommodations afforded college students with mental illness, the potentially discriminatory effect of disciplining these students, and the college’s liability for violating or adhering to these regulations.