Thanks for your encouragement. I already took a leave this year due to a mental breakdown in May. I took part in an Intensive Outpatient Program to learn better coping skills. So, my employer is already aware that I have "problems". I even shared an article with HR and my boss (I now have a brand new boss whom I am not comfortable with) about telling employer about depression.

This would be something outside what is already stated in our company's policy. I want this to be permanent. Just knowing that I have that time would be a huge relief to me. And I might not even need that extra time.

I've asked a family member to comment on it and I haven't heard back from her yet.

Thanks again. I feel more confident in giving this letter to company.