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Author: Yvonne Wu
Image provided by Student Counseling Center at Fu Jen Catholic University
The Ministry of Education implemented “mental health leave” in high schools across Taiwan in March 2024 (Ke). Currently, over 40 high schools in Taiwan offer “mental health leave” to their students (Strong). Although this policy was initially adopted in high schools, and the Ministry did not require universities to adopt it, many universities in Taiwan have chosen to follow this policy. Additionally, the Legislative Yuan of Taiwan has encouraged universities to offer mental health leave based on students’ needs, inspiring many student associations to advocate for mental health leave on their campuses (Legislative Yuan Proceedings and Gazette Website). According to the Taiwan Youth Association for Democracy, approximately 20% of universities in Taiwan are working on implementing “mental health leave,” including several in northern, central, and southern Taiwan (Taiwan Youth Association for Democracy).
Despite its benefits, “mental health leave” has certain limitations. Each leave day can only be taken one day at a time, and students are allowed a maximum of three mental health leave days per semester, with a requirement for parental or doctor certification (Minutes of the Academic Affairs Meeting of Fu Jen Catholic University). Furthermore, students are not permitted to take mental health leave during examinations. Lastly, before granting mental health leave, schools must understand the reasons behind the student’s mental discomfort, contact parents or caregivers, and obtain their consent (Minutes of the Academic Affairs Meeting of Fu Jen Catholic University). These regulations aim to give students a chance to rest without compromising their academic performance.
Fu Jen Catholic University has also taken steps to respond to this new policy. The Student Associations of the English Language and Literature, Japanese Language and Culture, and French Language and Culture Departments were pioneers in advocating for mental health leave at Fu Jen Catholic University. Students from the English Language and Literature Department drafted the proposal and sought collaboration with the Japanese Language and Culture and French Language and Culture Departments. These three student associations issued a joint statement in July 2024, calling attention to the importance of mental health leave. The proposal was handed over to the Student Association of Fu Jen Catholic University in August 2024, and it was officially discussed during the Student Affairs Meeting in the fall 2024 semester. After a lengthy process, Fu Jen Catholic University finally allowed students to take mental health leave starting in the fall 2024 semester.
Image provided by Student Counseling Center at Fu Jen Catholic University
In an interview, Andrea Hsu, a senior in the English Department, shared how “mental health leave” benefited her. According to her account, if there had been no “mental health leave” to allow her a break from schoolwork, she might have been unable to manage her emotions and feelings, which could have persisted for a long time and eventually affected her mental health. Andrea said that “mental health leave” was a lifeline that helped her process her emotions and regain balance in her life. This example highlights the potential value of “mental health leave.” According to Andrea, “mental health leave” was not just a break but an essential tool to ease her anxiety.
Image provided by Student Counseling Center at Fu Jen Catholic University
From the professor’s perspective, “mental health leave” is a double-edged sword. While some students genuinely need this break, their absence can create challenges for professors. According to Professor Yan Zhen Wu, students with mental health issues often improve after taking “mental health leave” because a break from high-level pressure allows them to rest or seek professional assistance. However, Professor Wu acknowledges that some students may misuse “mental health leave” to skip classes. Despite this concern, she believes the policy is necessary, as struggling students already face significant challenges in their daily lives. Professor Wu also suggested that the current regulations for “mental health leave” could be improved. Currently, students who take “mental health leave” are reported directly to the department director and their homeroom teachers.
This approach may exacerbate some students’ mental health conditions by breaching their privacy. Additionally, she noted that the policy’s fairness is debatable, as students who use “mental health leave” may face fewer consequences than those who maintain perfect attendance. She also highlighted how group work can be disrupted by students’ absences, potentially affecting the group’s overall performance. To address these issues, Professor Wu recommends that instructors create remedial assignments for absent students to minimize any negative impact.
Apart from its regulations, Fu Jen Catholic University’s “mental health leave” policy includes supportive measures. For example, when students successfully apply for “mental health leave,” they receive an email with information about the counseling center and its services. The counseling center offers resources such as personal consultations, group sessions, and email consultations. Students who are unable to visit the center in person can use email consultations to express their emotions, relieve stress, and receive professional advice. Additionally, the counseling center shares mental health resources on its Facebook and Instagram pages, ensuring students have access to relevant information.
Image provided by Student Counseling Center at Fu Jen Catholic University
Although Fu Jen Catholic University’s “mental health leave” policy has only been implemented for a semester, it has significantly benefited students. However, additional measures are necessary to refine the policy and maximize its value. To conclude, implementing “mental health leave” helps alleviate students’ academic pressure and mental health challenges. However, the resources provided by the counseling center are crucial for helping students navigate their difficulties. Students taking “mental health leave” should consider utilizing the counseling center’s services, which offer professional and practical support.
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