The Importance of Mental Health Days: When and How to Take Them

In a world where stress and burnout have become all too common, a simple question arises: Are you taking the time to prioritize your mental well-being? The answer could unlock the key to a healthier, more productive life¹.

As surveys have revealed, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in the number of adults in the U.S. reporting symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia². In this climate, the need for mental health days has never been more apparent. But what exactly are they, and how can they benefit both individuals and organizations?

Key Takeaways

• Mental health days are dedicated time off to recharge and rejuvenate, reducing burnout and improving productivity.
• Scheduling mental health days in advance can help manage stress levels and prevent burnout¹.
• Taking mental health days can contribute to improved resiliency and better connections with others².
• Mental health days can benefit both adults and children, aiding in emotional management and boundary development².
• Consulting healthcare or mental health professionals is advised for individuals dealing with workaholism or mental health concerns¹.

What is a Mental Health Day?

Definition and Purpose

A mental health day is a day intentionally taken off from work or school to focus on one’s emotional and psychological well-being³. The purpose of a mental health day is to provide a pause in the daily routine, allowing individuals to reduce stress, prevent burnout, and return to their responsibilities with renewed energy and a more positive mindset³. Mental health days are distinct from traditional sick days, as they are a proactive measure to address mental health needs rather than simply responding to physical illness³.

Distinguishing from Sick Days

While sick days are typically used to recover from physical ailments, mental health days are specifically designed to address emotional and psychological challenges⁴. Unlike sick days, mental health days do not require disclosing the specific reasons for taking time off, providing a level of privacy for employees⁴. The length of a mental health day can vary, ranging from a few hours to a full day or even longer, depending on the individual’s needs³.

Recognizing the signs of burnout, such as feeling anxious, irritable, forgetful, or socially withdrawn, can indicate the need for a mental health day⁴. Proactively scheduling mental health days as a preventive measure is recommended, rather than waiting for a crisis to occur⁴.

“Taking a break for self-care can give you the break you need to head back into tasks with a clear head.”

Engaging in activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as attending a yoga class, getting a massage, or spending time in nature, can be beneficial during a mental health day³. Conversely, activities that may exacerbate stress, such as excessive social media consumption or unhealthy habits, should be avoided³.

By embracing the concept of mental health days, individuals can prioritize their emotional well-being, prevent long-term issues, and return to their responsibilities with a renewed sense of purpose and productivity⁵. Employers who recognize the value of mental health days and support their employees’ well-being can foster a more engaged, resilient, and high-performing workforce⁵³⁴.

Benefits of Taking a Mental Health Day

Taking a mental health day can provide a variety of benefits to improve both your professional and personal life⁶. Overworking can lead to burnout, impacting productivity in both professional and personal life⁶. Mental health days offer a chance to catch up on neglected sleep, promoting better mental performance and health⁶. Taking time for self-care can lead to a higher chance of success and better overall well-being⁶. Completing personal to-do lists during a mental health day can help alleviate stress and anxiety⁶. Disconnecting temporarily from stressors can allow individuals to reconnect with activities and people that bring them joy.

Reduced Burnout and Stress

⁶ Effects of a mental health day can manifest in improved mood, reduced stress, and prevention of burnout⁷. Signs of burnout include withdrawal from activities, irritability, detachment, anxiety, and physical symptoms like sickness or exhaustion⁷. Symptoms indicating the need for a mental health day include insomnia, fatigue, high blood pressure, frequent illness, depression, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, lack of concentration, appetite issues, chronic headaches, and substance abuse.

Improved Mood and Productivity

⁶ Appropriate activities for a mental health day include light exercise, napping, connecting with loved ones, engaging in hobbies, and preparing healthy meals⁷. The importance of unplugging, engaging in hobbies, spending time outdoors, and relaxation for boosting mental health is emphasized⁷. Overall well-being can be improved by taking mental health days to recharge the mind and body.

⁶ Mental health days are not a cure for mental health issues, but can provide relief from symptoms and help individuals manage their mental well-being.

“Taking a mental health day can be a game-changer in reducing burnout and improving productivity.”

When to Take a Mental Health Day

Recognizing the signs that you need a mental health break is crucial. More than half of employed Americans would be nervous to take a day off for mental health reasons because they believe an employer will think less of them⁸. However, poor mental health can negatively impact productivity, leading to increased costs for employers. Anxiety and depressive disorders cost the global economy a trillion dollars in lost productivity each year according to research by the World Health Organization (WHO)⁸. Taking a mental health day before burnout sets in can help prevent long-term repercussions.

Signs of Needing a Break

Signs that you may need a mental health day include: loss of motivation, decreased focus, reduced productivity despite working the same hours, exhaustion from intensive projects, increased feelings of sadness, irritability, and anger, heightened anxiety or depression, trouble sleeping, chronic stress-related headaches, excessive worrying about work outside business hours, loss of interest in joyous activities, withdrawal from loved ones due to stress, feeling constantly stressed, and becoming cynical about work or the future with your employer⁹.

At the end of 2017, 52% of Americans did not use all of their vacation days according to a study by the US Travel Association’s Project Time Off⁸. Scheduling a mental health day in advance can guarantee the time off while allowing for proper planning. However, poor mental health can also arise unexpectedly, and taking a mental health day on short notice may be necessary if you wake up especially stressed, down or anxious.

You are not obliged to disclose that you are taking a mental health day to your employer; you can use generic language if uncomfortable. However, if your company culture is supportive of mental health discussions, sharing that you are taking a mental health day can help break the stigma. It is okay to call in sick using general terms, and the day off can help you feel recharged upon returning to work⁹.

“Signs that you may need a mental health day include: loss of motivation, decreased focus, reduced productivity despite working the same hours, exhaustion from intensive projects, increased feelings of sadness, irritability, and anger, heightened anxiety or depression, trouble sleeping, chronic stress-related headaches, excessive worrying about work outside business hours, loss of interest in joyous activities, withdrawal from loved ones due to stress, feeling constantly stressed, and becoming cynical about work or the future with your employer.”⁹

President of Hackensack Meridian Health Behavioral Health & Integrative Medicine and Carrier Clinic, Donald J. Parker, is the clinical contributor for this story⁹. To schedule an appointment with a doctor, individuals can call 800-822-8905 or visit the provided website⁹. The content on HealthU serves as general information and should not replace personalized medical advice. It is essential to consult a physician for individualized care⁹.

How to Ask for a Mental Health Day

Communicating openly with employers is crucial when requesting a mental health day. Many employees are hesitant to call out of work due to concerns about how their request will be perceived. However, employers should encourage staff to prioritize their mental health just as they would their physical health¹⁰.

Employees can frame mental health days as sick days or use personal time off to avoid potential judgment. Being vague when asking for a mental health day is acceptable, as employers should understand the need for taking time off to address mental health concerns¹⁰.

Communicating with Employers

The post provides examples of how to communicate the need for a mental health day, offering scripts for both situations where one feels comfortable discussing mental health and where one does not feel comfortable¹⁰. The focus of the guidance is to prioritize self-care and well-being, acknowledging the importance of taking care of one’s mental state¹⁰.

While it has become more acceptable to ask for days off for mental health reasons, indicating a positive shift in the stigma around mental health¹⁰, people may still need days off to take care of their mental health just like they would for physical health concerns¹⁰.

“It’s important to remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Don’t hesitate to take the time you need to recharge and address any mental health concerns.”

Federal labor and anti-discrimination laws protect employees with 50 or more coworkers or under federal contract who take time off for mental health reasons¹¹. Additionally, California’s Paid Sick Leave law allows for the use of paid sick leave for both physical and mental health needs¹².

Hourly workers may risk losing pay or their job by taking a mental health day, highlighting a potential barrier for some individuals¹². Suggestions are provided for hourly workers or those with limited PTO to prioritize mental health through shorter breaks or self-care practices during the workday¹².

Employees are encouraged to give notice of their absence as soon as possible to allow their colleagues to prepare for their leave¹². Employers generally have to allow the use of paid sick leave without requiring detailed explanations or doctor’s notes¹².

By communicating openly with employers and prioritizing mental health, employees can take the necessary steps to care for their well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance¹⁰¹¹.

The Importance of Mental Health Days: When and How to Take Them

Mental health days are a crucial consideration for individuals seeking to prioritize their well-being and prevent burnout. These periodic breaks from work or school provide an opportunity to rest, recharge, and return to duties with a refreshed mindset¹³. Recognizing the signs of impending burnout and communicating openly with employers or teachers can empower individuals to take the necessary time off to address their mental health needs¹³. Each person’s burnout cycle and self-care preferences are unique, underscoring the importance of tailoring mental health days to individual preferences and requirements for relaxation and rejuvenation¹³.

Investing in mental health days can yield long-term benefits for both employees and employers². Taking time off can reduce feelings of burnout, enhance morale, improve attitude and resiliency, and minimize isolation and loneliness². For employers, embracing mental health days can lead to increased productivity, decreased presenteeism, and reduced long-term absenteeism². Ultimately, fostering a work environment that recognizes the importance of mental health can contribute to a healthier, more engaged workforce¹³.

Mental health days are equally valuable for children and teenagers¹⁴. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented number of young people struggling with mental health challenges, underscoring the need for consistent support and clear boundaries around mental health days¹⁴. These breaks can help children develop emotional self-management skills, establish healthy boundaries, and reduce the stigma associated with mental health needs¹⁴. Parents and educators can collaborate to ensure that mental health days are used intentionally, with a focus on engaging in activities that promote overall well-being¹⁴.

Ultimately, the importance of mental health days lies in their ability to prevent burnout, improve overall mental well-being, and foster a more balanced and resilient workforce and student population¹³. By recognizing the signs of burnout, communicating openly, and engaging in self-care activities, individuals can take proactive steps to prioritize their mental health and return to their responsibilities with renewed energy and clarity¹³.

Planning Your Mental Health Day

Taking a mental health day is more than just a day off from work – it’s an intentional opportunity to prioritize your well-being. When planning your mental health day, the key is to focus on activities that help you disconnect from work and engage in self-care¹⁵.

Disconnecting from Work

The first step in planning a successful mental health day is to disconnect from work. This means turning off email notifications, avoiding checking Slack or other work-related apps, and setting boundaries around work-related tasks¹⁵. Unplugging from technology can help you truly unwind and recharge¹⁶.

Engaging in Self-Care Activities

Once you’ve disconnected from work, it’s time to focus on activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. This could include going for a nature walk, practicing mindfulness or meditation, reading a book, or engaging in a creative hobby¹⁶. Self-care activities that bring you joy and reduce stress are key to getting the most out of your mental health day¹⁵.

Remember, the goal of a mental health day is to prioritize your well-being and do what feels most rejuvenating for you¹⁵. By disconnecting from work and engaging in self-care, you can return to your responsibilities feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the week ahead¹⁵.

“Mental health days are not a substitute for professional help in cases of persistent mental health issues.”¹⁵

While mental health days can be incredibly beneficial, they shouldn’t replace seeking professional support if you’re struggling with ongoing mental health concerns¹⁵. It’s important to recognize the limits of what a mental health day can achieve and to seek additional help if needed.

Overcoming Stigma and Guilt

Many employees feel guilty or ashamed about taking a mental health day, worried that it will be perceived negatively by their colleagues or managers. However, it’s crucial to understand that mental health conditions are chronic illnesses that deserve the same consideration as physical health needs¹⁷. Stigma towards individuals with mental health conditions is a prevalent issue, leading to discrimination in various forms¹⁷. Negative beliefs and attitudes towards those with mental illnesses can result in reluctance to seek help, lack of support from family, friends, and coworkers, and limited opportunities for work, social activities, and housing¹⁷.

Normalizing Mental Health Needs

By normalizing the need for mental health days and seeing examples of company leaders taking them, the stigma can be reduced, and employees can feel empowered to prioritize their well-being¹⁷. Seeking treatment is crucial, as it can alleviate symptoms interfering with work and personal life¹⁷. Joining support groups like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) can help reduce stigma and provide resources for individuals with mental health conditions¹⁷. However¹⁸, the role of television in perceptions of dangerousness regarding mental health exists and has an impact¹⁸.

Overcoming the stigma and guilt associated with mental health days is crucial for creating a supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable prioritizing their well-being.

¹⁸ Worker attitudes towards mental health problems and disclosure show varying ranges, and¹⁸ mental health stigma as social attribution may impact research methods and attitude change¹⁸. Furthermore¹⁸, state nursing licensure questions about mental illness and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act impact nursing practice¹⁸. Stigma regarding mental health issues in nursing and healthcare presents a challenge, leading nurses to sometimes suffer in silence¹⁸.

¹⁹ A study showed that 79% of professionals feel pressure to stay connected to work outside of working hours, contributing to high stress levels¹⁹. Research indicates that taking regular mental health days can reduce the risk of burnout by 57% among employees working in high-stress environments¹⁹. A survey found that 65% of employees who take mental health days reported improved overall well-being and job satisfaction¹⁹. However¹⁹, 52% of employees admitted feeling guilty when taking time off for mental health reasons, suggesting a prevailing stigma around prioritizing mental well-being in the workplace¹⁹.

By addressing the stigma and normalizing mental health needs, companies can create a culture that empowers employees to take the necessary time to recharge and maintain their well-being¹⁹. Companies that promote a culture of wellness and support mental health days experience, on average, a 23% increase in employee engagement and a 19% decrease in absenteeism¹⁹. Furthermore¹⁹, engaging in self-care activities during mental health days has been associated with a 40% increase in productivity upon returning to work¹⁹.

¹⁹ 94% of professionals believe that creating a workplace that values mental health can positively impact organizational success and employee retention rates¹⁹. By fostering a culture of understanding and support, employers can help their team members overcome the stigma and guilt associated with mental health days, ultimately leading to a more resilient and productive workforce.

Mental Health Days for Children and Teens

Mental health days are not just a luxury for adults – they can also be incredibly beneficial for children and teenagers. As an unprecedented number of young individuals struggle with mental health issues following the pandemic, addressing these concerns is crucial¹⁴. By allowing children and teens to take mental health days, parents and educators can help them develop essential self-management skills, set healthy boundaries, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health needs.

Recent surveys have shed light on the importance of mental health days for children and teens. According to a survey by Verywell Mind and Parents, 75% of parents agree that mental health days can effectively manage a child’s mental health, with 56% allowing their children to take such days²⁰. Furthermore, 32% of parents are open to the idea, and 54% express concern about their child’s mental health, with 35% stating their child shows signs of struggle or emotional distress at least once a week²⁰.

The benefits of mental health days for young individuals are well-documented. When children see their parents and teachers taking time off to prioritize their own well-being, it sends a powerful message about the importance of self-care¹⁴. Activities recommended for mental health days include spending time outdoors, engaging in calming activities like drawing or baking, practicing mindfulness, exercising, and listening to music or reading books to help children recharge and focus on their mental well-being¹⁴.

However, it’s essential to set reasonable limits and expectations around mental health days. Parents should consider agreeing on a specific number of days per year, such as two per semester or five per school year, to avoid excessive use¹⁴. Additionally, offering smaller, targeted breaks for kids who may need to recharge but cannot take a full day off, such as allowing them to sleep in or take a half day, can be an effective compromise¹⁴.

In cases where children frequently request to stay home or show signs of distress, it may indicate underlying issues like bullying, undiagnosed learning disorders, or mental health problems like depression¹⁴. In such situations, it’s crucial to have a deeper conversation and potentially involve teachers, school counselors, or mental health professionals to seek appropriate help and care for the child¹⁴.

As more states implement policies allowing students excused absences for mental health days, with 10 states doing so during the pandemic²¹, it’s clear that prioritizing the mental well-being of children and teens is becoming increasingly recognized as a crucial aspect of their overall development and academic success²¹.

Childmind.org,Parents.com, and Optum.com provide valuable insights and resources on the importance of mental health days for children and teens.

Creating a Supportive Work Environment

Employers play a vital role in fostering a work culture that encourages and normalizes mental health days. By implementing flexible paid time off (PTO) policies, offering employee assistance programs, and being transparent about their own mental health needs, companies can set an example and support their workforce’s well-being²². Implementing supportive mental health environments in the workplace can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, improved employee morale, and enhanced job satisfaction²².

Encouraging Mental Health Policies

Progressive companies like Deloitte, Unilever, and Microsoft have pioneered mental health initiatives that other businesses can emulate²². The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) outlines a “trauma-informed” approach with the four Rs rubric: Realize, Recognize, Respond, and Resist²². Encouraging open dialogue about mental health can reduce stigma and promote awareness through workshops, seminars, and mental health days²². Providing access to mental health resources like counseling services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and online support tools can significantly benefit employees²².

Fostering a supportive work environment also involves promoting work-life balance²³. Offering flexible work schedules or remote work options can contribute to a healthy work-life balance for employees²³. Training managers and supervisors to recognize signs of mental distress and provide support is crucial in creating a supportive work environment²².

Identifying and mitigating workplace stressors, promoting team cohesion, providing a safe space for expression, and supporting remote workers are essential strategies to address mental health in the workplace²². Regularly monitoring and evaluating mental health initiatives is key to understanding their effectiveness and making necessary adjustments for continued improvement²².

“Over half of the world’s population is employed, with 15% of them experiencing mental disorders like depression, anxiety, emotional distress, and insomnia.”²⁴

By creating a supportive work environment and encouraging mental health policies, employers can not only address the mental health needs of their workforce but also contribute to the overall well-being and productivity of their organization²²²⁴²³.

Mental Health Days and Productivity

While a mental health day may result in a temporary decrease in output, combating employee stress in the long run leads to better productivity, engagement, and company culture²⁵. Work stress can negatively impact job performance, so prioritizing mental health through initiatives like mental health days is in the best interest of both employees and employers²⁶.

Long-Term Benefits for Employers

Investing in employee mental health can yield substantial long-term benefits for employers²⁷. EAPs (Employee Assistance Programs) can empower employees to discuss their mental health needs confidently²⁵, while providing a supportive work environment that fosters better focus, creativity, and energy – all of which positively impact work performance and personal life²⁵.

In fact, mental health days can lead to improved productivity, creativity, and reduced stress, combating the negative impact of work stress, such as missed deadlines and decreased engagement levels²⁶. Additionally, activities like yoga, meditation, exercise, and pursuing hobbies on a mental health day can help alleviate physical symptoms like headaches and stomach issues that can indicate mental strain²⁵.

Employers who prioritize mental health initiatives can see long-term benefits, such as reduced burnout²⁶, lower turnover rates, and a more engaged and productive workforce²⁷. By normalizing the discussion around mental health and providing the necessary support, companies can create a culture that values employee well-being and see the positive impact on their bottom line.

Ultimately, investing in employee mental health through programs like mental health days is a win-win proposition for both the workforce and the company²⁵²⁶²⁷. By fostering a supportive and understanding environment, organizations can unlock the full potential of their employees and drive long-term success.

Examples of Companies with Mental Health Initiatives

Many forward-thinking companies are leading the way with innovative mental health policies and programs to support their employees’ well-being²⁸. Akamai, for instance, has a dedicated Corporate Wellness Program Manager who develops, implements, and maintains resources for employee mental health, focusing on wellness pillars such as active, nourished, calm, balanced, and healthy²⁸. Bell has donated over $100 million to mental health initiatives and provides resources like a 24/7 helpline and digital support tools for employees in the U.S. and Canada²⁸.

Other companies are also making strides in this area²⁸. City Year offers mental health resources to its AmeriCorps members, including virtual therapy sessions and meditation sessions through apps like Talkspace and Ten Percent Happier²⁸. Ernst & Young LLP (EY) offers up to 25 counseling sessions for employees and their family members, mindfulness training, mediation sessions, and covers the cost of online support tools for stress management²⁸.

²⁸ Influence & Co. developed a new mental health policy in consultation with mental health professionals, offering training workshops for managers and employees²⁸. McMaster-Carr offers free therapy sessions, wellness programs, generous PTO, local sports tickets, fitness subsidies, and tuition reimbursement to support employee well-being²⁸.

²⁸ Oliver Wyman provides free professional counseling 24/7, mental health education, and Recharge days for employees to unplug and offers a Wellbeing Champion Network for peer support²⁸. Palo Alto Networks provides mental health benefits including private counseling sessions, live group sessions, guided meditations, and $1,000 per year for health or well-being expenses²⁸.

²⁸ Pinterest hosts wellness events and discussions through its Pinspiration group “Pinside Out,” bringing in experts to cover topics like mental health and intersectional feminism²⁸. RingCentral offers “CaRing Days,” providing employees with extra paid holidays quarterly to unplug, recharge, and engage in activities they enjoy²⁸.

²⁸ Thermo Fisher Scientific has a paid time off donation program and offers various benefits related to employee health and happiness within their community of care initiatives²⁸.

These companies demonstrate best practices for mental health policies that prioritize employee well-being and create a supportive work environment²⁹. The average share of adults reporting symptoms of anxiety disorder and/or depressive disorder increased from 11% in 2019 to 41.1% in 2021, underscoring the importance of such initiatives²⁹.

Company	Mental Health Initiatives
Signal Advisors	10 paid health days each calendar year29
Duolingo	20 days of paid time off and two additional weeks off for winter break29
T-CETRA	Free access to an EAP, streaming meditation, and mindfulness classes29
SkySpecs	Flexible vacation and personal time off with an EAP for free therapy services29
Root Inc.	Unlimited PTO with a complimentary subscription to the Headspace app29
Waymark	Mental health days throughout the year along with unlimited PTO29
Hush	Mental health days, robust PTO, and weeks where the entire company is shut down to allow for relaxation29
PAXAFE	Physical and mental wellness programs, remote work, and mental health days29
Fiveable	Ability to work remotely from anywhere in the world and provides stipends for mental health support29
Cerkl	Company-wide end-of-December two-week break for employees29
Drip	Rest & Recharge Week at the end of August, with unlimited Planned Time Away and Unplanned Sick Time29
Censys	Flexible PTO policy and offers access to mental health apps and an EAP29
NetWorks Group	Unlimited PTO policy and conducts monthly 1:1s to discuss time off for mental health29
Dolr	Encourage team members to take time for mental wellbeing and personal best29
BrandXR	Supports mental health days whenever employees need to recharge29
Plume	Unlimited PTO, 11 paid holidays, and free Plume and mental health subscriptions29
Veritone	Empowers individuals in talent acquisition, media, entertainment, and public sector industries with human-centered AI solutions29

³⁰ Salesforce offers free therapy for employees and their families through a partnership with Lyra Health³⁰. NIKE, Inc. provides 20 free therapy and coaching sessions for employees and their family members through Lyra and employee assistance programs³⁰. Palo Alto Networks provides employees and their dependents with access to self-serve resources through Modern Health for mental wellness³⁰.

³⁰ Intuit offers up to $1,300 per fiscal year for expenses related to emotional, physical, and financial well-being for employees³⁰. Broadridge offers an employee assistance program that includes mental health and substance abuse support to eligible associates³⁰. Banfield has nearly 20,000 associates, including 3,600 veterinarians, and is committed to providing high-quality care to pets³⁰.

³⁰ Jumio has 11 global offices and fosters a culture characterized by Integrity, Diversity, Empowerment, Accountability, and Leading Innovation³⁰. BrainPOP provides access to in-network mental health providers, online mental health partners, employee assistance programs, mental health days, and more to its employees³⁰. Blueprint Medicines focuses on allergy/inflammation and oncology/hematology and seeks to improve and extend patients’ lives through innovative medicines³⁰.

These examples showcase the diverse range of companies prioritizing mental health and wellness initiatives for their employees, demonstrating best practices for creating a supportive work environment. By investing in their workforce’s well-being, these organizations are not only fostering happier and more productive employees but also setting a positive example for the broader business community.

Seeking Professional Help

While mental health days can be an effective way to manage stress and rejuvenate, some individuals may require additional professional support for their mental health concerns. Reaching out to a primary care provider or mental health professional can be beneficial for gaining perspective, developing coping strategies, and addressing any underlying issues contributing to poor mental health³¹.

According to Mental Health America, in 2019, 19% of U.S. adults met the criteria for mental health disorders³¹. Moreover, the National Institutes of Health notes that more than half of individuals may be diagnosed with a mental health disorder at some point³¹. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes that mental health disorders encompass conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and more³¹.

Symptoms that may indicate the need for professional help include a prolonged feeling of sadness, loss of interest in social activities, changes in sleeping or eating patterns, increased drug or alcohol use, auditory or visual hallucinations, extreme emotional highs and lows, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, paranoia, fatigue or lack of energy not related to physical health conditions, and unexplained weight gain or loss³¹.

Seeking help from professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or licensed professional counselors is necessary for accurate evaluation of mental well-being and developing suitable treatment plans³¹. These experts can provide valuable insights and guidance on managing mental health concerns, from addressing stress and anxiety to more severe conditions like depression or bipolar disorder³¹.

Twelve states already allow students to take mental health days, and legislation to allow students to take mental health days has been proposed in another 8 states³². Mental health problems such as stress and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues³².

For individuals seeking professional help for their mental health, it’s important to understand the various resources available. Canyon Creek Behavioral Health, for example, caters to adults, adolescents, and older adults, offering inpatient and outpatient treatment services for individuals with mental health issues and mood disorders³². In case of medical emergencies, individuals are advised to call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room³². Canyon Creek Behavioral Health can be reached at 254-410-1819 for those seeking help with their mental health³².

While seeking professional help for mental health can seem daunting, it’s important to remember that it’s a sign of strength and self-care. Many individuals are confused about where to begin, hesitant to reach out due to uncertainty about follow-up procedures, or unsure about the affordability of mental health treatment³³. However, it’s crucial to overcome these barriers and prioritize your mental well-being. With the right support and resources, individuals can navigate their mental health journey and achieve the balance and fulfillment they deserve.

Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking professional help is a sign of courage and self-care. By addressing mental health concerns proactively, individuals can unlock the path to improved overall well-being and a more fulfilling life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mental health days are a vital tool for managing stress, preventing burnout, and improving overall well-being. By recognizing the signs of needing a break³⁴, communicating openly with employers, and engaging in intentional self-care activities, individuals can reap the benefits of taking time off to prioritize their mental health. Employers also play a crucial role in creating a supportive work environment that normalizes and encourages the use of mental health days³⁴.

The importance of mental health days is underscored by the rising prevalence of mental health issues, especially among children and teenagers. Statistics show that one in six children aged 6–17 experience a mental health disorder each year, and 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14 in the United States³⁴. Schools and parents are recognizing the need for mental health support, as evidenced by instances of mental health crises on the rise for children and teenagers, highlighting the importance of prevention and emotional well-being initiatives³⁴.

As society continues to prioritize mental health, the adoption of mental health days as a means to promote well-being and prevent burnout will be crucial. By destigmatizing the conversation around mental health and empowering individuals to take the necessary time off, we can foster a healthier and more resilient workforce and student population. The key takeaways on mental health days are their potential to reduce stress, improve productivity, and contribute to overall emotional and mental well-being³⁴³⁵³⁶.

FAQ

What is a mental health day?

A mental health day is a limited time away from usual responsibilities with the intention of recharging and rejuvenating mental health. It can help reduce feelings of burnout, improve morale and attitude, increase resiliency, prevent mental health crises, and boost productivity.

How is a mental health day different from a sick day?

Mental health days are distinct from sick days as they are an intentional act to alleviate distress and poor mood, while improving attitude, morale, functioning, efficiency, and overall well-being.

What are the benefits of taking a mental health day?

Taking a mental health day can provide several benefits, including reduced feelings of burnout, improved morale and attitude, increased resiliency, reduced isolation and loneliness, prevention of mental health crises, and improved physical health.

When is the best time to take a mental health day?

It’s important to learn to recognize signs of burnout before they affect physical health. Scheduling a mental health day in advance can guarantee the time off while allowing for proper planning. However, poor mental health can also arise unexpectedly, and taking a mental health day on short notice may be necessary if you wake up especially stressed, down or anxious.

How should I communicate with my employer about taking a mental health day?

When requesting a mental health day, it’s crucial to communicate openly with employers. Many are afraid to call out of work due to concerns about how it will be perceived, but employers should encourage staff to take care of their mental health just as they would their physical health. Employees can frame mental health days as sick days or use personal time off to avoid judgment.

How should I spend my mental health day?

A mental health day is more than just getting a latte and taking a nap. It should be an intentional and productive day focused on activities that boost physical and mental wellness. This can include unplugging from social media, reviewing personal goals, engaging in creative hobbies, getting physical exercise, and spending time outdoors.

How can I overcome the stigma and guilt around taking a mental health day?

Some employees feel guilty or ashamed about taking a mental health day, worried about how it will be perceived by colleagues or managers. However, it’s important to remember that mental health conditions are chronic illnesses that deserve the same consideration as physical health. By normalizing the need for mental health days and seeing examples of company leaders taking them, the stigma can be reduced, and employees can feel empowered to prioritize their well-being.

Can mental health days benefit children and teens as well?

Mental health days are not just for adults. They can also be beneficial for children and teens, helping them develop self-management of emotions, set boundaries, and reduce stigma around mental health needs. By seeing parents and teachers take mental health days, kids can learn the importance of prioritizing their own well-being.

How can employers create a supportive work environment for mental health days?

Employers play a crucial role in creating a work culture that encourages and normalizes mental health days. This can be done by implementing flexible PTO policies, offering employee assistance programs, and setting an example by being transparent about their own mental health needs.

How do mental health days impact productivity and company culture?

While a mental health day may result in a temporary decrease in output, combating employee stress in the long run leads to better productivity, engagement, and company culture. Work stress can negatively impact job performance, so prioritizing mental health through initiatives like mental health days is in the best interest of both employees and employers.

When should I seek professional help for my mental health?

While mental health days can be an effective way to manage stress and rejuvenate, some individuals may need additional professional support for their mental health concerns. Reaching out to a primary care provider or mental health professional can be beneficial for gaining perspective, developing coping strategies, and addressing any underlying issues contributing to poor mental health.

Source Links

1. ‘Am I a workaholic?’ The importance of mental health days
2. Recharge with a mental health day
3. It’s OK to Take a Mental Health Day—When and How to Ask for One
4. Mental health days: Why you shouldn’t hesitate to take one
5. What is a Mental Health Day? Everything You Need to Know
6. The Benefits of Taking a Mental Health Day
7. No title found
8. 5 Telltale Signs You Need to Take a Mental Health Day From Work
9. Signs That You Need a Mental Health Day
10. How to Ask for a Mental Health Day from Work | Mindful Health Solutions
11. How to Ask Your Boss for a Mental Health Day – Mental Health First Aid
12. How To Request a Mental Health Day at Work (with Email Templates) – LAOP Center
13. Is Taking a Mental Health Day Actually Good for You?
14. Should Kids Take Mental Health Days? – Child Mind Institute
15. What is a mental health day? And 5 signs you need one — Calm Blog
16. What to Do on a Mental Health Day: 12 Ideas
17. Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness
18. Overcoming Stigma: Asking for and receiving mental health support
19. The Importance of Mental Health Days: Why Taking Time Off Matters
20. Kids Today Need Access to Mental Health Days
21. Why a mental health day can be good for your child
22. Mental Health in the Workplace: Supporting Employee Well-Being | National Fund for Workforce Solutions
23. Mental Health Matters: Creating a Supportive Work Environment
24. How to Promote Mental Health at Work: Essential Strategies
25. How to take a mental health day: 10 tips to help you plan — Calm Blog
26. When should you take a mental health day? [2024]
27. Why Mental Health Days Are Essential for Your Employees – Omni HR
28. 17 Companies That Prioritize the Mental Health of Their Employees – RippleMatch
29. Top Startups, Tech Companies that Offer Mental Health Benefits
30. 19 Companies With Great Mental Health and Wellness Benefits
31. 4 Signs It May Be Time To Seek Professional Mental Health Help
32. The Benefits of Mental Health Days – Canyon Creek Behavioral Health
33. Seeking Professional Help
34. The Growing Acceptance of Mental Health Days for Students
35. Pros and Cons of Mental Health Days for Students – EducationalWave
36. Why It’s Important to Care for Your Mental Health