Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To whom it may concern,
I am writing to formally request academic consideration for the past academic year due to unforeseen circumstances surrounding my mental health. As a dedicated student, I am deeply committed to my academic pursuits; however, I have encountered significant challenges that have impacted my ability to perform to the best of my abilities.

Over the past year, I have been facing ongoing mental health issues, including severe depression, anxiety, and ADHD, which have significantly affected my academic performance. I have been dealing with suicidal thoughts and plans, in addition to self-harm. Despite my best efforts to manage these challenges, they have intermittently interfered with my ability to fully engage in my studies and complete assignments within the expected timelines. In response to my declining health, my family doctor reached out to a psychiatrist, and I was tested and formally diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. I began receiving treatment at the beginning of April 2024.

To support my request, I have attached documentation from both my therapist and family doctor outlining the nature of my mental health condition and its impact on my academic functioning. These documents provide a comprehensive overview of my situation and affirm the genuine and unforeseen nature of my challenges. I have been referred to and enrolled in a 26-week program at Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital that begins in September. In addition, I am moving home and planning to transfer to online learning. I have met with Lindsay in Student Academic Success, and I went to Queen's University last week to make an appointment with an Academic Resource Advisor. Today, I met with Jenna, who is helping me with courses for this transition.

I am sincerely committed to my education, receiving my honours degree, and attending teacher college. I am eager to overcome these obstacles with the appropriate support and understanding from the school. I am requesting accommodations or extensions for assignments, exams, or any other necessary adjustments to help mitigate the impact of my circumstances on my academic progress. I am more than willing to discuss this matter further or provide any additional information deemed necessary to support my request. Your understanding and support during this challenging time would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Warm regards,

Hannah Banks
20274121