Dear Professor,

Please excuse my absence. I know we had an important lecture today. I know you said attendance is mandatory and we really need to be present if we're going to learn all of the material. I know you said all of these things, but I needed a day to focus on my mental health.

It's been difficult to focus in class when I can't even find the strength to get out of bed in the mornings. Every day is a struggle, and I try so hard to sit and learn while you're doing your best to expand our knowledge, but it's no use when I'm an empty shell.

Dear Professor,

Please understand that not every day is a good day. Some days I wake up hating myself, while others I pretend to be an attentive student, all the while I can't stop thinking about how much I want to lay in bed forever.

I force myself to attend class, never really trying to learn because my life feels meaningless.

Dear Professor,

Please excuse my behavior. I know my face says it all: "does not want to be here." But it isn't you, or the lesson you're teaching, or even the fact that this class is so early in the day. It's me.

I'm sorry I have a blank, lifeless look in my eyes. I'm sorry I can't even raise my hand to answer your question. I just can't bring myself to participate.

Dear Professor,

Please excuse my numerous emails. I don't want you to think I'm skipping class because I'm hungover or at the beach or spending my day running errands. I'm at home, tucked away in bed, unable to eat or socialize.

I want to keep you informed and let you know that I need a day to recuperate. I need a day to rest because my mental health is failing me, and I feel like I'm losing a grip on reality.

Dear Professor,

I'm coming into class today. I've had some time to work on myself and rest. I feel much better.

Thank you for understanding.