Petition Letter
I am writing to you to explain my special circumstances that have affected my academic performance at the university. Since November 2022, I have been struggling with depression, which has had a profound impact on my ability to meet the school's requirements. I feel it is essential to provide a detailed account of my experiences to help you understand why my performance has suffered.
In November 2022, I began experiencing a persistent low mood, which led me to seek help from the university. After a diagnosis from the school, it was confirmed that I was suffering from depression. At that time, I started feeling a sense of despair about life, and an inner voice constantly told me that I should not continue living. These thoughts and emotions were overwhelming and made it incredibly challenging for me to focus on my studies.
Throughout high school, I was an exceptional student, achieving excellent grades. Even when I entered university, I strived to complete every task assigned by my professors. However, as time went on, I became increasingly anxious with each subsequent assignment. The pressure to excel and the fear of not meeting my own high expectations caused immense distress. As a result, I started experiencing difficulty falling asleep and was frequently awakened by nightmares during the night. The lack of proper sleep left me exhausted and unable to concentrate in class the following day.
The persistent anxiety further hindered my ability to focus and relax. I found it extremely challenging to maintain attention during lectures and to calm my mind. This ongoing internal struggle caused me immense pain, leaving me feeling helpless and emotionally unstable. Consequently, my mood swings became more pronounced, exacerbating the already difficult situation.
Realizing that something was wrong, I sought help from various university resources. Since November 2022, I have made multiple attempts to meet with the SWS Counselling Services, and I have also reached out to several professors and academic advisors, such as Professor Simpson, Professor Reeves, Dr. Fanning, Professor Daralyn, and others, to express my struggles with depression and anxiety.
In March 2023, my condition worsened, leading to another diagnosis of moderate depression by the university in April. Despite my best efforts to continue studying, I found myself constantly battling the physical and mental exhaustion caused by depression. Consequently, I was unable to complete some course requirements, including assignments and exams, resulting in a significantly low GPA. I have been deeply distressed by this situation, and out of fear of worrying my parents, I have chosen not to disclose these challenges to them. I have been coping with depression on my own, while simultaneously trying not to disappoint the professors who have shown me great support and have high expectations of me. I am aware that they have done everything in their power to help me overcome the voice within me that has been holding me back.
As of May 16, 2023, I have returned to China and sought comprehensive treatment for my mental health at a specialized psychiatric hospital. I have been undergoing systematic therapy, which includes medication and psychological interventions. I am pleased to inform you that my condition has significantly improved. I have regained my motivation and ability to engage in both academic pursuits and daily life activities. My doctor has assured me that with another month of treatment, my condition will be well within my control.
In November 2022, I began experiencing a persistent low mood, which led me to seek help from the university. After a diagnosis from the school, it was confirmed that I was suffering from depression. At that time, I started feeling a sense of despair about life, and an inner voice constantly told me that I should not continue living. These thoughts and emotions were overwhelming and made it incredibly challenging for me to focus on my studies.
Throughout high school, I was an exceptional student, achieving excellent grades. Even when I entered university, I strived to complete every task assigned by my professors. However, as time went on, I became increasingly anxious with each subsequent assignment. The pressure to excel and the fear of not meeting my own high expectations caused immense distress. As a result, I started experiencing difficulty falling asleep and was frequently awakened by nightmares during the night. The lack of proper sleep left me exhausted and unable to concentrate in class the following day.
The persistent anxiety further hindered my ability to focus and relax. I found it extremely challenging to maintain attention during lectures and to calm my mind. This ongoing internal struggle caused me immense pain, leaving me feeling helpless and emotionally unstable. Consequently, my mood swings became more pronounced, exacerbating the already difficult situation.
Realizing that something was wrong, I sought help from various university resources. Since November 2022, I have made multiple attempts to meet with the SWS Counselling Services, and I have also reached out to several professors and academic advisors, such as Professor Simpson, Professor Reeves, Dr. Fanning, Professor Daralyn, and others, to express my struggles with depression and anxiety.
In March 2023, my condition worsened, leading to another diagnosis of moderate depression by the university in April. Despite my best efforts to continue studying, I found myself constantly battling the physical and mental exhaustion caused by depression. Consequently, I was unable to complete some course requirements, including assignments and exams, resulting in a significantly low GPA. I have been deeply distressed by this situation, and out of fear of worrying my parents, I have chosen not to disclose these challenges to them. I have been coping with depression on my own, while simultaneously trying not to disappoint the professors who have shown me great support and have high expectations of me. I am aware that they have done everything in their power to help me overcome the voice within me that has been holding me back.
As of May 16, 2023, I have returned to China and sought comprehensive treatment for my mental health at a specialized psychiatric hospital. I have been undergoing systematic therapy, which includes medication and psychological interventions. I am pleased to inform you that my condition has significantly improved. I have regained my motivation and ability to engage in both academic pursuits and daily life activities. My doctor has assured me that with another month of treatment, my condition will be well within my control.