Guide on Motivations, Timing, and Techniques for Taking a Day Off for Mental Health Reasons
In today's fast-paced world, it's essential to prioritize self-care, especially when it comes to mental health. Whether you're working at a company of 50 or holding a federal job, you have the right to take time off for mental health without fear of penalty.
Taking a mental health day can be a legitimate response to a variety of health issues, such as anxiety, depression, chronic stress, a toxic workplace, or even physical illness. It's important to remember that taking a mental health day is not a sign of weakness or selfishness, but a necessary step to maintain overall well-being.
When the need arises, calling in for a mental health day requires no lengthy explanation. If you wake up one day unable to handle the stress and mental overwhelm of work, it's perfectly acceptable to take a last-minute mental health day off.
However, it's beneficial to manage stress before it becomes an emergency. Prioritizing sleep, nourishing foods, and daily movement can help reduce stress levels. If you find yourself needing to make changes, consider journaling, making a list of stressors and a plan for dealing with them, talking it out with a friend, therapist, or life coach, or reading a self-help book.
Results from a 2020 survey of more than 5,000 American adults found that 31% reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, 26% reported symptoms of trauma- or stressor-related disorder related to the pandemic, and 13% said they'd boosted their substance use to cope. These statistics underscore the importance of mental health awareness and the need for individuals to take care of their mental well-being.
If you need to let loose, try grabbing lunch with a friend, blasting music, getting physical, trying a new recipe, or socializing. These activities can help alleviate stress and promote a positive mood.
Chronic psychological stress can increase the risk of several conditions later in life, such as arthritis, heart disease, and COPD. Therefore, it's crucial to prioritize mental health and take necessary steps to manage stress before it becomes a health concern.
Taking a mental health day is a temporary fix and may not solve big, bad issues like a toxic workplace, lackluster work-life balance, or burnout. However, it can provide a much-needed break for your brain, similar to a sick day giving your body rest.
Scheduling a mental health day in advance can help avoid nagging coworkers or interrupting work. If you feel like you need a mental health day, remember that it's not always obvious when your brain needs a break, but if you feel the need, you probably do.
Deciding what you need most - rest, recharge, or reset - is important when planning a mental health day. If you need rest, consider activities like yoga, massage, picnicking, strolling through nature, taking a nap, reading a good book, soaking in a bubble bath, or going to a coffee shop. Self-care is an essential part of a mental health day.
If stress, anxiety, or sadness are interfering with your daily life, don't hesitate to ask a healthcare professional for help. They can provide guidance and support to help you navigate through challenging times.
Remember, being healthy and whole requires physical and mental wellness, and self-care should be a priority. Taking a mental health day is a step towards prioritizing your mental health and overall well-being.
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