I’m considering withdrawing from my classes due to family issues and I’m worried about having to repay my grant money. I’m currently in my second semester at a private university. I attended classes for the first three weeks, but then I stopped because I’ve been frequently going home to care for my disabled mom, who has been struggling lately. On top of that, I’ve been experiencing severe depression, which made it hard for me to even recognize what I was going through. I didn’t share with my mom that I had stopped attending classes. I wasn’t distracted by parties or socializing; I just felt stuck and spent all my time in my dorm room.
While home for Spring Break, I finally opened up to my mom about everything. I rely heavily on financial aid, including a Pell Grant, Cal Grant, school grants, and scholarships. I’m feeling lost about what to do. Even if I were to return and excel, it seems unlikely I could pass my classes at this point.
I’m contemplating a withdrawal due to my family circumstances and my mental health struggles—although I haven’t seen a therapist yet and thus have no documentation of my depression. My biggest concern is that if I withdraw, I might have to repay all of the grant and scholarship funds since I’ve only really attended for three weeks. My mom is on disability, and we don’t have the financial resources to cover that. She could potentially face bankruptcy if forced to repay.
Classes start again on Monday, and I’m unsure about my next steps. Should I return, try my best, and risk failing to avoid losing the limited financial aid we have? I know I can attend community college once things settle down and focus on improving my grades. While I’m somewhat more preoccupied with avoiding losing my federal and school grant money than with my academic performance, I now recognize that I’ve been struggling with depression for some time. I’m taking steps to find someone to talk to, but I really need guidance on how to handle things at school Monday. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear about everything you’re going through. It’s important to address both your mental health and your academic situation, and it sounds like you’re taking steps in the right direction by recognizing your need for support.
Regarding the financial aid and grant situation, here are a few things you might consider:
Contact Your Financial Aid Office: It’s crucial to reach out to your university’s financial aid office as soon as possible. They can provide specific information on how withdrawing from classes might affect your grant money. Explain your situation honestly; many institutions have policies in place to support students facing legitimate hardships.
Consider a Withdrawal for Medical or Compassionate Reasons: If you explain your situation—specifically the family issues and your mental health—there may be provisions for a medical or compassionate withdrawal that could prevent you from having to pay back all your aid. Documenting your circumstances might help your case, even if you don’t currently have a therapist.
Look into Mental Health Resources: It’s great to hear that you’re considering talking to someone about your mental health. Most universities have counseling services available for students. Even if you’re not currently enrolled in classes, they may still offer support.
Academic Advisor: Speak with an academic advisor about your options moving forward. They can help you evaluate whether it makes sense to withdraw or to continue trying in your classes, based on your personal situation.
Take Your Time: Don’t feel pressured to decide everything immediately. If you need more time to figure things out, take it. Your health and well-being come first.
Future Options: If you do end up needing to withdraw, remember that community college or other educational pathways are still available to you in the future. Focus on getting the support you need right now.
Above all, take care of yourself. It’s okay to seek help and to prioritize your health during difficult times. You’re not alone in this, and there are people and resources that can help you navigate through it.