HELP!!! Can I get a medical leave of absence from physician/doctor but no physical injury? Pls Reply

–I’m an international student graduating next fall–

I really want to take a leave (withdraw) from my one summer class (second sem, a 6 week session in a community college) but obviously that would put me in status danger because I would be bellow 12 credits for a full semester. My boyfriend of two years died in January from a car accident. On and off I have been full of anxiety and had TMJ (Temporomandibular joint dysfunction) since then–which my ENT doctor said I had in April–, now it’s back even though I’m fully done mourning. Many say that this is not enough to attain a leave of absence. I really have been so stressed from other things, but I have no exact reason. I still really want to get an legal excused leave? Is there validity to a “stress leave”? I have already missed so much class. How can I get one to give to international student services?

Yes you can get a medical leave because of mental health issues. Go see your advisor and find out what steps you need to follow.

Agree with happmomof1 - from what you’ve written here, it appears you’re suffering from mental health issues which are a valid reason for withdrawal. HOWEVER do discuss this situation with your advisor to see how withdrawal will affect your status. You want to know all aspects of your decision.

If you’re worried about your F-1 status, there’s an exception for temporary medical conditions (which includes psychological conditions).

https://www.nafsa.org//File//amresource/8cfr2142f.htm