[dysoco]

Not OP but in a very similar position.

How much time off do you think would be enough? Are we talking like a one/two week vacation or something more in the range of months (which ofc would imply leaving my job)?

Also does taking time off also include university or is it just the job that's going to be problematic?

[Leherenn]

I doubt a week or two is going to be enough. You don't necessarily have to leave your job though, given how difficult it is to hire people, it's likely an unpaid leave for a few months would be accepted.

[ironlake]

As an American, I could afford a few months of unpaid leave – I couldn't afford the health insurance or risk switching plans if my employer didn't cover the costs.

[Leherenn]

Sure, but leaving your company would be the same. If you can't afford it, well, yeah, it's not an option.