Hi guys,
It would be great to have your advice on a particular aspect of my application. I’ve been struggling with an anxiety disorder (not too serious) for a while, but have finally learned how to live with it. I’m thinking of mentioning this is an application. Do you think colleges will think any less of me if I write about this? Or should I just remain in safer territory?
Thanks so much!
Is that really your most defining trait?
@bodangles No, it’s not. I’m just thinking of mentioning it in a small supplemental essay (150 words)
@PassionatePoet, I have three kids who have been diagnosed with mental illness, ranging from mild anxiety to schizophrenia. I have learned that a LOT of college students have a diagnosis. I would steer clear, if I were you. Although you will probably do fine, colleges have seen a bunch of diagnosed kids who haven’t. It also doesn’t make you stand out these days, unfortunately. I would focus on other strengths.
I’m glad you’ve learned to live with your anxiety. Be sure to continue counseling in college, if you can. My daughter, a college freshman with anxiety, sees someone weekly at the student health center. It’s really helped her a lot. She is thriving! 
Agree with ML. Unless it is really something you have addressed, successfully managed and can make a very compelling essay that tells the reader who you are, choose something else.
Even when a high school senior thinks they have successfully addressed it, colleges will be wary. Don’t do a supplemental essay on it. Keep your app focused on reasons why they would want you on campus.
Essays are not : Disclose everything about yourself
Essays are: Show us what is interesting about you
I would not talk about mental illnesses in my essay.
I would, however, take your anxiety into account when choosing colleges.
My daughter has anxiety too…it is absolutely fantastic that you have discovered this in HS and that you are getting it addressed. My DD went from not being able to perform in choir in front of the school before meds, to volunteering to sing over the intercom to the entire school after she started on medication.
One thing we did when choosing schools is to take anxiety into account…She chose a school about an hour from home…far enough to feel freedom, but near enough that we could help out or she could come home if necessary.
We also looked at the orientation program…the one she picked had a Welcome Week where you did activities with people on your floor, had a Community Advisor so you had a peer mentor if you need it, had a service that delivered prescriptions to the campus for her Rx.