„"Arthritis" is a collective term for a number of different diseases which primarily cause pain and inflammation in the joints, but can also affect tendons, muscles and even internal organs.

• The most common rheumatic diseases in young people include, for example. juvenile arthritis, spondylitis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
• Symptoms can be pain, stiffness, swelling, fatigue and sleep problems.
• The symptoms often occur in casts, so that sometimes daily life goes well but at other times, studying and social life can become very demanding.

It's important to remember: arthritis is an invisible illness, so people don't always see what you're going through.

What effect can arthritis have on learning?

• Difficult to sit in a classroom for long due to pain and stiffness
• Fatigue and sleep disturbances that make learning more difficult
• A need for greater flexibility in deadlines and attendance
• Challenges in sports or practical teaching
• Concerns about missing out on social life due to illness

What is your right?

Iceland has laws and regulations that guarantee students with chronic illnesses the right to support with their studies.

In secondary school

• You are entitled to special measures and support, e.g. flexible deadlines, extended exam time or changes to attendance requirements.
• The school can help to adjust the timetable or find solutions in collaboration with the learning adviser and teachers.

At university

• Students with chronic illnesses can get Special arrangements in examinations, e.g. extended exam time, a separate room or access to a computer.
• The universities offer careers and employment adviser which help to explain rights and apply for support.
• It is important to submit a doctor's certificate and explain what support you need.

General rights

• According to Legislation on equal treatment and accessibility You have the right to have your studies accessible despite illness. In this sense, accessibility is not just about the premises, but also about access to course materials, notes, audiobooks and anything else that can make your studies easier.
• If you need financial support, you can turn to Student Loans and Grants (The Icelandic Student Loan Fund) which offers special provisions in exceptional cases.
• Flexibility and personalised support It should be available at all school levels if needed.

Where can I get help?

• The school's careers adviserThe first step is to talk to him and explain the situation.
• The Arthritis SocietyThe organisation offers advice on rights, peer support and groups for young people.
• Healthcare professionalsA doctor or physiotherapist can provide a certificate to support your application for support.

Good to remember ✨

• You don't need to explain the illness in detail – but it helps to tell school staff how it affects your daily life.
• You have the right to support – this is not 'mercy' but a legal right.
• The sooner you talk to the school about your needs, the easier it is to find solutions.
• Arthritis is an invisible illness; if you don't let people know that you need adjustments to situations, you won't get the help you're entitled to.

💙 The aim is for you to be able to study on your own terms, despite arthritis. With the right support, this is very possible.