Qualifying Mental Health Conditions Flashcards
7 cards from real ESA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Qualifying Mental Health Conditions flashcards as text
A client with Schizoaffective Disorder seeks an ESA. A landlord argues the condition is 'too severe' for an ESA and they need a psychiatric facility. Is the landlord correct?
Answer: No, severity does not disqualify a person and the landlord may be engaging in discrimination
There is no severity threshold that disqualifies a condition; refusing an ESA based on perceived severity could constitute illegal disability discrimination under the FHA.
Which condition listed below is classified under Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders in the DSM-5, making it a common qualifying condition for ESAs?
Answer: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is classified under Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders in the DSM-5 and is one of the most frequently cited qualifying conditions for ESAs.
A college student has Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) that causes severe depression every winter, impacting their ability to attend classes. Can SAD qualify for an ESA?
Answer: Yes, if the seasonal episodes substantially limit major life activities during that period
SAD is a recognized depressive disorder, and episodic conditions can qualify if they substantially limit major life activities during active episodes.
A therapist's ESA letter states the client has 'anxiety.' Without specifying a clinical diagnosis, is this letter sufficient documentation?
Answer: No, a letter must identify a specific diagnosed mental health disability, not just a symptom
A valid ESA letter must identify a specific diagnosed mental health disability, as 'anxiety' is a symptom, not a formal diagnosis.
Intellectual Disability (formerly Mental Retardation) as classified in the DSM-5 falls under which category relevant to ESA eligibility?
Answer: Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Intellectual Disability is classified under Neurodevelopmental Disorders in the DSM-5 and can qualify for ESA accommodation if it substantially limits major life activities.
A client has a diagnosed specific phobia of flying that prevents them from traveling for work. An airline companion policy is at issue. Under what law do ESA air travel protections primarily fall?
Answer: The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), though airlines may now limit ESA policies
ESA air travel was historically governed by the ACAA, though 2021 DOT rule changes now allow airlines to treat ESAs as pets rather than service animals.
A person with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is obsessed with perceived physical flaws causing significant distress and social isolation. Under which DSM-5 category does BDD fall?
Answer: Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
BDD is classified under Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders in the DSM-5 and can qualify for ESA if it substantially limits major life activities.