Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Johanne Bénard, Associate Dean (Studies),

I am writing this letter of appeal to request to drop Psyc 241 (Fall 2017). As a direct consequence of extenuating circumstances, I received a failing grade in this course.
At the time of my fall studies, I experienced a series of extenuating circumstances which greatly affected my academic capabilities. My greatest challenge was a change to the medication I was taking to control Anxiety and Panic Attacks. At this time the medication was changed as it proved to be ineffective, however, I experienced withdrawal, accompanied by the side effects of starting a new antidepressant later in the semester. Consequently, there were many classes which I did not attend, as I felt unwell, had frequent high bouts of anxiety and suffered from increased panic attacks.

Adjustments to medication began mid -October. I identified the need for a change early in the semester and began seeking other forms of support such as weekly counseling. It was not until December a new antidepressant was prescribed. The month of November was spent dealing with the alterations of the new dosage, which led to increased anxiety, loss of concentration, increased panic, and irritability. I found it extremely difficult to attend classes as I constantly felt I was going to lose control. I became very overwhelmed by everything, and deferred all my exams until January, to allow myself to go home early in hopes things would improve.
While I was affected in all of my courses, Psyc 241, was particularly challenging for me. While I attempted to keep up with readings, the exams were always heavily based on class content, and since I rarely was in class I missed a lot of important information. Despite the new medication working (late December) and my ability to study, I was already so far behind that on the final I was not able to pass the course.

I am aware that dealing with these mental illnesses will be a continuous process for me. This past semester I have particularly tried numerous strategies to focus on reducing the burden this causes, such as monthly checkups with my physician, starting cognitive behavioral therapy, and frequent appointments with my counselor. Despite this great effort, it is very much a process. There are fluctuations in my abilities, with times that seem impossible to continue school, however, with all of the support at Queen¿¿s I am confident in my success. A new approach I am trying is to simply work on achieving a greater sense of wellness each day. I have learned numerous strategies for how to do this from a Health course I took this semester, and I have an action plan on how to achieve this. The plan includes adding one action to each day which promotes wellness. For example, Monday I may go for a walk, Tuesday go for a walk plus do yoga, Wednesday go for a walk, plus yoga and focus on eating better etc. Slowly this is transforming my lifestyle, which will lead to greater control. I feel as though these changes are necessary to excel in my academics. It should be noted that I will continue to seek support from the professionals I currently see.

If any additional information is needed, please let me know.

Kind regards,

Lauren Lamothe
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