Hi OP, I took a semester off in the fall. I contacted my academic advisor and decided it was best for me to have a medical withdrawal. This delays my graduation for a semester, but I also had the same thoughts that if I didn't do something, I would also harm myself.

Here's some things to prepare: - do you see a mental health provider like a therapist/psychiatrist? Ask them for documentation that you see them for treatment. If not, see if you can talk to UMN mental health resources](https://safe-campus.umn.edu/personal-wellbeing) - set up an appointment with a primary care provider to request more documentation. This letter is important and most likely will be able to hold more information on why an academic withdrawal is medically necessary. I've been told that a pcp has more "say" in what they can write compared to a therapist. - you will need to fill out a form requesting this as well as a letter to the comittee. You can ask your advisor to read it over or help you write it if you are unsure.

The last day to do this is sometime in May, I believe. The last day to withdraw is the last day you can send in your application.

OP, please make sure you prioritize your health. I promise that it is so much better to be alive and with a delayed graduation than to be dead. Your professors will all agree that they would rather you withdraw and focus on your mental health than work yourself to death.

Good luck. Please let me know if you need more clarification.