What is Emotional Disturbance as a qualifying disability in special education?

A child is eligible for an IEP if they meet the criteria for one of 13 eligibility categories and if they cannot make adequate progress in school without special education services. Emotional Disturbance (ED) is a broad category signifying mental health needs. The following may be considered ED or OHI (Other Health Impairment): Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Schizophrenia.

The 13 categories are explained in detail by Dr. Caitlin Solone, education advocate, teacher educator, and faculty at UCLA, in our article Qualifying Diagnoses for an IEP.