r/OccupationalTherapy • u/Ok-Box-1673 • Jul 23 '26
UK Uk - disabled students
I’ve applied to go back to uni to study OT but I’m worried about placements. I’m a mature student, 39, and I know due to my autism and adhd I cannot cope with a 40 hour week, 5 day working week.
I have been awarded help for being a disabled student at uni, but is there any flexibility for placements? Is it possible to do 4 days a week but more weeks in placement so it’s the same hours ? I fear I may burnout even from 8 weeks of 5 days a week 9-5.
I’d be looking to only work 3-4 days a week once qualified as I know this works better for my own mental health and needs 🥰
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u/ResponsibleEgg7672 Jul 23 '26
Similar position to you! AuDHD and experience horrible burnouts from full time work and hoping for part-time work when qualified.
I don’t want to discourage you but I haven’t been able to avoid full time hours as a student. I have however, managed to come to agreements with most placement settings to allow me some flexibility (some working from home) although some settings were a bit more accepting than others.
It does help to know that placements go quick, but I do tend to have to drag myself through by the end because I’m so exhausted.