Dear Professor,
First of all, I want to start by saying how much I appreciate you for your wisdom, humor and ability to handle my occasionally stupid questions. I appreciate your love for what you teach and your drive to make your students succeed. When I came to college, I was honestly not expecting you or your colleagues. I expected someone cold and distant who relied solely on PowerPoints to make your lesson. That is the farthest from what I have received.
But professor, I need you to know something. I have depression. I have a chemical imbalance that prevents me from living a completely normal life. I’m not going through a phase, this is something I will live with forever. I’m trying to regain some of my normality, but right now I am so very tired and fragile. I’ve lived with this for a while, but lately the medications and therapy haven’t been working. But, Professor, I’m trying to get better.
Professor, I can’t focus, no matter how interesting the subject. I can’t study because my mind will not be still long enough. I spend an unbelievable amount of time trying to learn, but I can’t right now. Professor, I fail your tests because no matter how hard I study, when I put paper to pen my mind is wiped clean. I miss your class. I don’t like to, but with doctors and therapists it’s hard to make them around your classes. I hope you know that every time I am in your class, it is a personal victory because many days it is difficult for me to leave my room. I feel as though you haven’t seen the real me, as my main wardrobe these days consists of a baggy shirt and jogging pants. Professor, I’m really trying my best to pay attention in class, but comprehension no longer comes easy for me, so please don’t judge my intelligence by the questions I ask.
I hope that you have known someone before me with this. That you have seen how it affects a life. I hope you understand. I hope you realize that I’m not lazy, I’m just barely functioning right now. More than likely, I will not be the last person you meet who suffers from this disease, so I hope this letter helps you prepare for them. I hope you notice that face of despair and are not afraid to ask them if they are OK. I know you will because your heart and passion for what you do runs deep.
Lagniappe: If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, getting help is vital. Most schools have free resources to help students just like us! Talk to them, there is no shame in what you are experiencing.
National Suicide Hotline: 1 (800) 273-8255
Crisis Call Center: 800-273-8255 or text ANSWER to 839863
