Some surgeries cost over a million dollars
Taking a break for physical health issues is super common, but doing so for the sake of your mental health is still a gray area. Sometimes you just need to acknowledge that you do deserve a mental health day, and it's far from selfish. Just like a sick day gives your body rest, a mental health day gives your brain a break. Whether the cause is coming from your personal or professional life, taking a day for yourself is crucial to maintaining your overall health and well-being.
Are you unsure of the signs that indicate you need a mental health day off? Need help resetting? Click through this gallery for some guidance.
If you're feeling overwhelmed from the news or any other life factors, then you're not alone. Many people suffer from anxiety and trauma from the day-to-day stuff, but sadly the large majority don't take a break to cope with the stress it causes.
Mental health is still health, and chronic stress can have long-term consequences that can lead to problems like arthritis, heart disease, and COPD. So taking a mental health day could help you in the long term.
It's not always obvious when your brain needs a break, but there are a number of signs that can indicate when it does. A messy sleep pattern is one of them. Whether it's trouble sleeping or frequent oversleeping, both are a hint you need a day off
A frequent sickness means a stressed immune system. Chronic headaches, stomachaches, and general tension also indicate the need for a break.
Increased alcohol and substance use are classic signs. Even energy drinks and other stimulants or depressants mean it's time to take a step back.
If you're often dealing with chronic anger, irritability, or just generally feeling sad, then you're definitely in need of a mental health day.
Stress generally leads to brain fog. Taking a step back from work for a day could help you shake it off and then improve your productivity.
Anxiety can appear in different forms, from racing thoughts to panic attacks. And if you're having a hard time snapping back to your usual mood, then it's a sign you need a mental breather.
Now let's look at how you can go about taking a mental health day off. First, try to plan your mental health day in advance. Depending on your relationship with your boss, you can even explain the reasons, but you're not required to.
Remember, mental health is still health. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or extreme stress, you can call in sick. That's totally valid.
This is your day! If you need extra rest, take a good old-fashioned nap. There's no shame in a nice snoozefest. It's a great way to better your mood and reduce fatigue.
Treat yourself with a spa day at home. Spend it in a comfortable robe and indulge in a suitable face mask for your skin type. And if you have a tub, why not soak in a bubble bath?
Being out in nature has many benefits for our mental and physical well-being. Take a stroll around a park, beach, or forest to help boost your mood, for instance.
Yoga has been proven to have many benefits, both physical and mental. So get your yogi mood on with a nice session for mental clarity and calmness.
Shake things up by trying a new recipe. It's a fun way of trying something different while developing your cooking skills and shifting your focus from daily worries.
Head to your favorite coffee shop with a good read. Cafés usually have a cozy and relaxing environment, making them an excellent hangout place for your mental health day.
If the weather allows, pack a picnic lunch for the park. It's a great way to get outside and also switch up your routine. Bring a book or magazine for some post-lunch reading.
Sometimes it's best to let some endorphins out by getting physical. It can be by taking a HIIT or kickboxing class, or even dancing or something less intense.
If you're in the mood to socialize, grab lunch with a friend. It's a nice way to catch up while also trying out a new place or just enjoying your favorite lunch spot.
For the ultimate relaxation on your mental health day, treat yourself to a massage. Not only does it bring physical benefits like reducing pain and muscle tension, it also improves stress and energy levels.
If you feel stuck on a big decision or that your stress levels are related to identity questions or big-picture issues, try journaling. You can also make a list of your biggest stressors and plan how you will deal with them.
Talking to a therapist is a great way to gain a better understanding of your emotions. It will also help identify roadblocks and obstacles that affect your mental health.
Taking a mental health day is a temporary fix that won't solve big issues like a toxic workplace, bad work-life balance, or even burnout.
Burnout is an actual medical term, so it's not something to take lightly. Signs may include chronic negativity, withdrawal, and exhaustion from work stress.
If you're struggling, talk to your boss. There's nothing wrong in asking for a new project deadline or even help from a coworker if you’re overloaded.
If it's your working environment that's causing problems and not the work itself, ask your boss about occasionally working from home.
If one mental health day isn't enough, consider taking a vacation or even a staycation. Some time away work wonders for your well-being.
If you’ve been denied reasonable requests, or you just can’t imagine your job changing, then it's probably time to look for a new job. It can be scary, as change is hard, but in the end it will lead to a happier and healthier you.
Sources: (Healthline) (Women's Health) (Greatist)
Signs you need a mental health day off, and how to reset
Take care of your mind the way you take care of your body
HEALTH Well-being
Taking a break for physical health issues is super common, but doing so for the sake of your mental health is still a gray area. Sometimes you just need to acknowledge that you do deserve a mental health day, and it's far from selfish. Just like a sick day gives your body rest, a mental health day gives your brain a break. Whether the cause is coming from your personal or professional life, taking a day for yourself is crucial to maintaining your overall health and well-being.
Are you unsure of the signs that indicate you need a mental health day off? Need help resetting? Click through this gallery for some guidance.