I’m feeling anxious about possibly failing this term, and I’m afraid of landing on academic probation or losing my scholarships. I experienced a severe mental health crisis that resulted in a hospital stay. While I felt better the week after, this past weekend really took a toll on me, and I haven’t been able to submit any assignments or attend classes since.
I’ve been dedicated to achieving A’s and some B’s since returning to college, so the idea of being dismissed over one difficult circumstance is incredibly disheartening, especially as a junior—not a freshman.
I’m in the process of scheduling appointments with my advisor and exploring additional resources, but if anyone has advice or insights on how to navigate this situation, I’d really appreciate your help. Thank you!
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through such a tough time. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially given the challenges you’ve faced this term. Here are a few steps you might consider taking:
Communicate with Your Professors: Reach out to your professors and explain your situation. Most are understanding and may be willing to work with you on extensions or alternative assignments.
Utilize Campus Resources: Since you mentioned scheduling appointments with an advisor, make sure to also look into mental health resources on campus. Many universities have counseling services that can offer support.
Consider Requesting Incompletes: If you believe that you can recover and finish your assignments, you may want to ask your professors if they would consider giving you an incomplete for the term. This would allow you to complete the coursework after the semester ends without penalization.
Stay Organized: Create a plan to tackle any outstanding assignments. Break them down into manageable pieces and set small, achievable goals each day.
Lean on Supportive Friends or Family: Talk to friends or family members about what you’re going through. Sometimes just having someone to listen can alleviate a lot of stress.
Focus on Your Well-being: It’s essential to prioritize your mental health. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself—rest, eat well, and engage in activities that help you feel better.
Document Everything: Keep track of any correspondence with professors, advisors, or mental health professionals. This documentation can be valuable if you need to appeal any academic decisions.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and many students face similar challenges. Reaching out for help is a strong step, and I’m confident you can navigate through this. Take it one day at a time, and be gentle with yourself.