Is Stress Covered Under the ADA?

Q: I am the ADA Coordinator at a college. A student is asking for a reasonable accommodation, as they are under stress. Is stress covered under the ADA?

A: Stress in itself may not qualify as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) if it does not impair a major life function. However, stress could have an impact on individuals who have psychiatric disorders and/or physical impairments such as high blood pressure or cardiac issues.

When making a decision whether or not to accommodate, the school must make an individualized assessment of each case that considers all variables.