Medical Excuse Letter for Mental Health Management
A medical excuse letter is appropriate and necessary for Catherine Drew to be excused from work/school from 9/22/2025-10/6/2025 to focus on her mental health management, as this time away will help prevent deterioration of her condition and improve long-term outcomes. 1
Appropriate Documentation for Mental Health Absence
The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines (which can be applied to adults as well) recommend that medical excuse documentation for mental health-related absences should include:
- Specific duration of absence (in this case, 9/22/2025-10/6/2025)
- Clear return recommendations
- Any necessary accommodations upon return
- Date for re-evaluation 1
Medical Rationale for Mental Health Absence
Mental health conditions require appropriate management and sometimes necessitate time away from regular responsibilities. Evidence shows that:
- Untreated or inadequately managed mental health conditions can lead to significant functional impairment 2
- Mental health has greater impact on human activity than any other non-communicable illness 2
- Proper mental health management is associated with improved quality of life and reduced mortality 2
Sample Letter Format
[Heart of Ohio Family Health Letterhead]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter confirms that Catherine Drew is an established patient at Heart of Ohio Family Health and is under my care. For medical reasons related to mental health management, Catherine will need to be excused from [work/school] from September 22,2025, through October 6,2025.
This absence is medically necessary for appropriate treatment and management of her condition. Catherine should be able to return to her regular activities on October 7,2025.
If you require additional information, please contact our office at [phone number]. Thank you for your understanding and support of Catherine's health needs.
Sincerely,
[Physician's Name]
[Physician's Signature]
[Medical License Number]
[Contact Information]Important Considerations
Confidentiality and Privacy
- The letter should not disclose specific mental health diagnoses or treatment details
- Only include the minimum necessary information to justify the absence 2
Follow-up Planning
- Schedule a follow-up appointment before Catherine returns to work/school
- Consider whether a gradual return (part-time initially) would be beneficial 1
- Assess if any accommodations will be needed upon return
Documentation in Medical Record
- Document the clinical reasoning for recommending this absence
- Note any specific mental health symptoms that impact functioning
- Record the treatment plan during the absence period
Mental health management is a legitimate medical reason for absence, and proper documentation helps ensure the patient receives appropriate support while maintaining privacy and dignity.