Hi,

I could do with some advice. This is a difficult topic, but I recently disclosed to my PhD supervisors that I had tried to commit suicide four months ago as a consequence of ongoing PhD stress. The response has been harrowing: I had to attend a meeting with my faculty and consent to a psychological assessment by student welfare services. I have to have a follow-up meeting, and my supervisors are considering whether or not I can continue to a full PhD, or whether I will have to submit an MPhil.

My primary supervisor has already informed me that he feels unable to continue providing me with supervision. I am in my writing up year, and whilst my supervisors have no official obligation to provide me with continued supervision anyway, I was wondering if I have any legal rights to remain on my PhD or if there is any way they can force me to submit for a lower award. I am not being asked to leave, but I don't want to submit for a lower award, even if it means staying on a PhD against my faculty's wishes and writing my thesis without any help. If my supervisors advise me to submit an MPhil, is there any way I can refuse?

I was also told that I may be required to disclose details of medications and / or mental health treatments, and to permit the University access to my medical records. Is there is any legal requirement for me to disclose this? Whilst I have nothing to hide, I am unwilling to disclose any further information to my faculty.

Any advice with regards to my rights or legal position would be greatly appreciated.

Edited to add that my supervisors are concerned for my wellbeing and I fully understand their position. I only want to find out what rights I have in this, if any.