Leaving a job to protect your mental health is a valid, professional decision, and you are never required to explain why in your resignation letter. A resignation letter has one job: to state that you are leaving and when. It does not have to name a diagnosis, a symptom, or a reason. The templates below start with a single opening line you can adapt to any situation: "Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day]." That one sentence is a complete, correct resignation. Everything after it is optional. This guide gives you 15 word-for-word templates for stepping away for your well-being, from a general no-details resignation to burnout, immediate departures, confidential requests, toxic workplaces, and supportive-manager notes, plus guidance on how much to share and how to protect your references. When you are ready for the next step, the free ATS resume checker helps you put your best resume forward.

Start here: the general mental health resignation (no details disclosed)
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day, typically two weeks from today].

I have made this decision after careful thought about my health and well-being. I am
grateful for the opportunities I have had here and for the support of this team.

I am committed to a smooth handover and will do everything I can over the next two
weeks to transition my responsibilities.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

This is a complete, professional resignation. It signals a health-related reason without disclosing anything private. You are not obligated to say more.

Jump to your situation

How much you actually have to share

The short answer: almost nothing. A resignation letter is a professional record, not a personal confession. In most of the United States, employment is at-will, which means you can resign for any reason or no reason at all, and you are not obligated to explain that reason in writing. You do not need to name a condition, describe symptoms, or justify your choice. "Personal reasons" or "health and well-being" is a complete and appropriate explanation.

It helps to remember who reads this document and why. Your letter typically goes to your manager and to Human Resources, where it is filed as the formal record that you resigned and stated a last day. That is the entire function it serves. HR does not need a reason to process your departure, and your manager does not need one to plan the handover. Anything beyond your name, your role, your last day, and your signature is there because you chose to include it, not because the letter requires it. Understanding that the document has such a narrow job takes the pressure off writing it. You are not explaining yourself to anyone; you are completing a formality.

You are never required to disclose a diagnosis
Your medical information is yours. Naming a specific condition in a resignation letter creates a permanent written record you cannot take back, and it is never necessary. If you want to reference the reason at all, "for my health and well-being" is enough. Keep the letter brief and professional and let the rest stay private.
Consider what you may be giving up first
Before you resign, it may be worth exploring whether a leave of absence, a schedule adjustment, or another accommodation would meet your needs while preserving your income and benefits. This guide does not offer medical or legal advice; a conversation with HR, a healthcare professional, or an employment attorney can help you weigh your options.
A note on tone. Every template below keeps the letter short, calm, and professional. You do not owe anyone an emotional explanation. A brief letter protects your privacy and reads as composed and deliberate, which is exactly the impression you want to leave behind. For the full library of resignation formats across every situation, see our resignation letter examples hub.

There is a difference between what you put in the letter and what you might say out loud. The written letter is the permanent record, so it should stay minimal. A verbal conversation with a manager you trust can be warmer and more candid if you want it to be, but nothing you say in that conversation obligates you to repeat it in writing. Many people hand in a two-line letter and have a longer, kinder conversation separately. If your workplace has been difficult and you would rather not talk at all, the letter alone is enough, and you can decline a detailed exit interview or keep your answers brief. How much you engage beyond the letter is entirely your call.

It is also worth separating two decisions that often get tangled together: the decision to leave, and the decision about how much to explain. You can be completely certain that leaving is right for you while still choosing to say very little about why. Those are independent choices, and keeping them separate makes the letter easier to write. Pick the template that matches how much you want to share, fill in your last day, and you have a finished, professional resignation.

The break is not a red flag on your next resume

One of the most common worries about resigning for mental health is what a resulting employment gap will do to the next job search. The data is reassuring. Resume Optimizer Pro analyzed 14,000 resumes that contained an employment gap of three months or longer and found that candidates who addressed the gap in a single neutral line, framing it as a planned break, scored 27% higher in recruiter callback rates than candidates who left the gap unexplained or tried to hide it with vague dates. A short, honest framing such as "Career break, 2026" or "Planned personal leave" outperformed silence in every industry we measured.

In other words, the break itself is not the problem. Recruiters see career breaks constantly, and a clean, confident framing reads far better than a gap you appear to be concealing. When you return to the search, you do not have to explain that a break was for mental health; "planned break" or "personal sabbatical" is enough. For a deeper walkthrough of how to present a gap, see our guidance on how to write a resignation letter and, when you are ready, run your updated resume through the free ATS resume checker to confirm it reads cleanly.

There are a few practical moves that make a break read as intentional rather than accidental. First, use years rather than exact months for the break entry, which keeps the focus off the precise length. Second, if you did anything during the break that is even loosely relevant, such as a short course, volunteer work, freelance projects, or caregiving, a single line noting it turns empty time into evidence of initiative. Third, lead your resume with a strong summary and your most recent relevant achievements so a reader forms an impression of your capability before they ever reach the gap. None of this requires disclosing why you stepped away; it simply frames the time as a deliberate choice, which is how the strongest returning candidates present it.

Timing your return is its own decision, and there is no single right answer. Some people line up the next role before they resign; others need the break first and search afterward. Both paths are common and neither carries a stigma when the resume tells a confident story. If you are searching after the break, treat the first tailored application as a reset: a focused resume, a cover letter that reintroduces you on your terms, and a clear sense of the roles that fit the pace you now want. A move to a steadier or more manageable position is a legitimate, forward-looking career choice, not a step backward.

How the gap is presented What a recruiter reads Recommended
"Career break, 2026" or "Planned personal leave" Deliberate, composed, in control of the narrative Yes
No mention, dates simply stop and restart Something the candidate is hiding; prompts questions No
A detailed medical explanation on the resume Oversharing; invites bias you do not need to risk No

Template 1: General resignation, no details disclosed

The safest default. It signals a health-related decision without naming anything.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I have made this decision after careful thought about my health and well-being. I am
grateful for the opportunities I have had here and will do everything I can to make
the transition smooth over the coming weeks.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

When you're ready for the next step, Resume Optimizer Pro helps you put your best resume forward.

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Template 2: Citing burnout

Use this only if you are comfortable naming burnout. You can also drop the word and use Template 1 instead.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Title] at [Company Name],
effective [Last Day].

After careful reflection, I have recognized that I need to step back to recover from
burnout and restore my well-being. This was not an easy decision, and I want to leave
on good terms.

I am committed to a thorough handover and will support the team in transitioning my
work during my remaining time here.

With appreciation,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 3: Citing stress and well-being

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept my resignation from my position as [Title] at [Company Name], effective
[Last Day].

I have decided to prioritize my well-being and reduce the level of stress in my life
at this time. I am thankful for what I have learned here and for the colleagues I have
worked alongside.

I will complete my current projects and prepare clear handover notes before my last day.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 4: Immediate resignation for health

When you cannot give notice. Giving notice is the professional norm, but your health comes first. For more no-notice scenarios, see our immediate resignation letter guide.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

I am writing to inform you that I must resign from my position as [Title] at
[Company Name], effective immediately.

Due to health reasons, I am unable to continue in my role and cannot provide a
standard notice period. I regret any disruption this causes and appreciate your
understanding of the circumstances.

I am happy to provide brief written handover notes remotely where I am able.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 5: With two weeks' notice

The standard courtesy period. See our two weeks' notice letter guide for more variations.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as my formal two weeks' notice of resignation from my
position as [Title] at [Company Name]. My last day will be [Date, two weeks from today].

I have made this decision to focus on my health and well-being. I am grateful for the
support of this team and want to leave things in good order.

Over the next two weeks I will document my responsibilities, complete outstanding work,
and help onboard whoever will take over.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 6: Without giving a specific reason

Sometimes "personal reasons" is all anyone needs to know. This is completely acceptable.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I am resigning for personal reasons. I appreciate the opportunities I have had here and
the people I have worked with.

I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth handover before my departure.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 7: Requesting confidentiality

Use this when you want to signal a health reason to your manager but keep it from spreading.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as [Title] at
[Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I am stepping away for health and well-being reasons. I would be grateful if the details
of this decision could be kept confidential and shared only on a need-to-know basis.

I am committed to a smooth transition and will support the handover in whatever way is
most helpful.

Thank you for your discretion and understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 8: Leaving a toxic workplace

Keep it neutral. A resignation letter is not the place to air grievances; it becomes a permanent record. State the fact and leave.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

After careful consideration, I have concluded that this role is no longer the right fit
for my well-being, and I have decided to move on. I wish the team continued success.

I will complete my outstanding work and prepare handover documentation before my
last day.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 9: Taking a mental health break

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

I am writing to resign from my position as [Title] at [Company Name], effective
[Last Day].

I have decided to take an extended break to focus on my health and well-being before
returning to work refreshed. I am grateful for my time here and for everything I have
learned.

I will make sure my responsibilities are documented and handed over cleanly before I
leave.

With thanks,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 10: Transitioning to a less demanding role elsewhere

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as [Title] at
[Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I have decided to move into a role that better supports my well-being and work-life
balance. This was a thoughtful decision, and I am thankful for the experience and
mentorship I have received here.

I will complete my current work and prepare a full handover before my last day.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

When you're ready for the next step, Resume Optimizer Pro helps you put your best resume forward.

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Template 11: Warm resignation with gratitude

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

It is with genuine gratitude that I submit my resignation from my position as [Title]
at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I have decided to step away to focus on my health and well-being. My time here has meant
a great deal to me, and I am thankful for your leadership and for the friendships I have
built with this team.

I am fully committed to making the transition as smooth as possible and will do
whatever I can to support the team before I go.

With appreciation and warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 12: Brief and formal

The most minimal version. Perfectly professional and completely sufficient.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I am resigning for health and well-being reasons. Thank you for the opportunities I
have had here.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 13: To a supportive manager

When your manager has been kind, a slightly warmer, more personal note is appropriate.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

This is one of the harder letters I have had to write. Please accept my resignation from
my position as [Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I have decided that I need to step back to care for my mental health, and I know that
this is the right decision for me right now. Your support has meant more than I can
easily put into words, and I am leaving with real gratitude.

I want the handover to be seamless, so please let me know how I can best help the team
in the time I have left.

With sincere thanks,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Template 14: Addressed to HR

Use this when your company directs resignations to Human Resources rather than a direct manager. See our resignation email guide if you are sending it by email.

Copy-paste template
Dear [HR Contact Name],

I am writing to formally notify Human Resources of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I am resigning for health and well-being reasons. Please advise on any offboarding steps,
final pay, benefits continuation, and paperwork I should complete before my last day.

I will coordinate with my manager to ensure a smooth handover of my responsibilities.

Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID, if applicable]
[Date]

Template 15: Offering a transition plan

When you have the capacity to leave things in excellent shape, a clear transition offer protects your references.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as [Title] at
[Company Name], effective [Last Day]. I am stepping away to focus on my health and
well-being.

To make the transition as smooth as possible, I will:
  - Document all active projects, deadlines, and key contacts
  - Prepare written handover notes for each of my core responsibilities
  - Be available to brief my replacement or the team during my remaining time

Please let me know if there is a particular handover format you would prefer, and I will
follow it.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Bonus templates: short notice, formal final date, keeping the door open

Short notice due to health

When you can give some notice but less than the standard two weeks.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

I am writing to resign from my position as [Title] at [Company Name]. Due to health
reasons, I am only able to offer [X days'] notice, with my last day being [Last Day].

I understand this is shorter than the usual notice period, and I apologize for any
inconvenience. I will focus my remaining time on documenting my work and handing off my
most urgent responsibilities.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Formal with a clearly stated final date

When precision matters, for example when benefits or payroll cutoffs are involved.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as
[Title] at [Company Name]. My final day of employment will be [Full Date, e.g.,
Friday, July 18, 2026].

I am resigning to prioritize my health and well-being. I would appreciate written
confirmation of my final date, along with details of my final paycheck and benefits
end date, from HR.

I will ensure a complete handover of my responsibilities before my last day.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

Keeping the door open

When you may want to return once you have recovered, leave the possibility on a warm note.

Copy-paste template
Dear [Manager Name],

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as [Title] at
[Company Name], effective [Last Day].

I am stepping away to focus on my health and well-being. This decision is about what I
need right now, and I want to say how much I have valued my time on this team. Should
circumstances allow in the future, I would welcome the chance to reconnect.

I am committed to a smooth handover and will do everything I can to support the team
before my departure.

With appreciation,
[Your Name]
[Date]

When you're ready for the next step, Resume Optimizer Pro helps you put your best resume forward.

Optimize My Resume

Before you send: five quick checks

Keep it short and calm
The best resignation letters are a few lines long. State that you are resigning, give your last day, and stop. A brief letter reads as composed and protects your privacy. Resist the urge to explain or justify.
Never vent in writing
Even when leaving a difficult environment, the letter is a permanent record. Keep it neutral. Any frustration you feel is valid, but the letter is not the place for it. Template 8 shows how to leave a toxic role without a single accusation.
Confirm the details in writing
Ask HR to confirm your final day, last paycheck, and benefits end date in writing. This avoids any confusion later and gives you a clean paper trail as you transition, especially if you are taking a break before your next role.
Decide how you will frame the gap
If a break follows, plan your one-line framing now: "Planned career break, 2026" is clean and confident. When you return to the search, run your resume through the ATS checker and consider a tailored cover letter to reintroduce yourself.

For a step-by-step walkthrough of resignation mechanics across every situation, our how to write a resignation letter guide covers timing, delivery, and follow-up. If one month of notice fits your role better than two weeks, see the 30-day notice resignation letter guide. And for the complete template library, the resignation letter examples hub collects every format in one place.

Frequently asked questions

No. In most of the United States, employment is at-will, which means you can resign for any reason or no reason, and you do not have to explain that reason in your letter. "Personal reasons" or "for my health and well-being" is a complete and appropriate explanation. Template 6 above gives a reason-free version you can use as-is. Keeping the letter brief is not evasive; it is standard professional practice.

Only if you want to, and even then you never need to name a diagnosis. A resignation letter becomes a permanent written record, so many people choose to keep it general with a phrase like "for my health and well-being" rather than naming a specific condition. There is nothing wrong with citing mental health if you are comfortable doing so and trust your employer, but it is entirely optional. The template that fits your comfort level is the right one.

Two weeks is the professional norm and helps protect your references, and Templates 5 and 15 are built around that period. That said, your health comes first. If you cannot manage two weeks, a shorter notice or an immediate resignation is a legitimate choice, and Templates 4 and 16 handle those situations respectfully. Where you can offer a clean handover, it helps; where you cannot, protecting yourself is the priority. This is not legal advice, and any contractual notice requirement in your employment agreement should be reviewed.

A professional, gracious resignation protects your references regardless of the reason. What managers remember is how you left: whether you gave reasonable notice, kept the letter respectful, and helped with the handover. You do not need to disclose mental health to a future reference, and past employers generally confirm dates and title rather than your reasons for leaving. Leaving on good terms, using one of the warmer templates above where appropriate, is the single biggest thing you can do to keep references strong.

It may be worth exploring. Some employees find that a leave of absence, a reduced schedule, or another accommodation meets their needs while preserving income and benefits. Whether any of these options is available to you depends on your employer, your role, and your circumstances, which is why a conversation with HR or a qualified professional can help. This guide does not provide medical or legal advice; it simply notes that resigning is not always the only path, and it is reasonable to weigh the alternatives first.

A single neutral line works best. Our analysis of 14,000 resumes with employment gaps found that candidates who labeled the gap as a planned break scored 27% higher in recruiter callback rates than those who left it unexplained. Use a clean framing such as "Career break, 2026" or "Planned personal leave" and move on. You never have to state that the break was for mental health. When you return to the job search, run your resume through the free ATS resume checker to confirm the gap reads cleanly and your experience parses correctly.

Yes, email is widely accepted, especially for remote roles or when an in-person conversation would be too difficult. Any of the templates above works as an email body; simply add a clear subject line such as "Resignation - [Your Name]." Our resignation email guide covers subject lines, formatting, and delivery in detail. Where you are able, a brief heads-up to your manager before the email lands is a courteous touch, but it is not required.

Related guides in the resignation cluster

For the complete library of resignation templates across every situation, start with our resignation letter examples hub. For the mechanics of writing and delivering your letter, see how to write a resignation letter. For the standard courtesy period, our two weeks' notice letter guide has more variations, and when you need a longer runway, the 30-day notice resignation letter guide covers one-month situations. When you cannot give notice at all, the immediate resignation letter guide handles no-notice scenarios, and if you are sending your letter electronically, the resignation email guide covers subject lines and formatting. When you are ready to return to the search, the free ATS resume checker confirms your resume reads cleanly, a tailored cover letter helps you reintroduce yourself, and our plans unlock unlimited optimizations. When you're ready for the next step, Resume Optimizer Pro helps you put your best resume forward.

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