Are you having trouble concentrating at work? Feeling more tired than usual? Are you burnt out? It may be time for you to take a mental health day.
Even though some people may feel uneasy about taking one, mental health days are good for your career. 63% of employees have taken a mental health day in the past year.
However, a stigma still exists about taking time off your mental health. According to a recent survey, 44% of people lied about needing the day off. Why? They had concerns about how their employer would react to their request.
At IQ PARTNERS, our recruiters have a strong belief that taking a mental health day when you need one is better for you now and in the long run. So, let’s talk about why.
In the blog below, I’ll talk about:
- Why mental health days are good for your career
- The signs it is time to take a mental health day
- Things to do on a mental health day
- Common questions people have about mental health days
Why Is Taking A Mental Health Day Good For You?
Taking time to recharge and reset is important for your mental well-being. According to an Ipsos World Mental Health Day survey, 58% of people think about their mental well-being often and 78% say their mental health is equally as important as their physical health.
Most people would have no issue taking a day off if they had a sore back or headache to recuperate. Taking a day off to recharge mentally is the same. Here’s why taking a mental health day is good for you:
- Increased Productivity: Chronic stress can lead to decreased focus and poorer quality of work. A mental health day can help you return feeling refreshed and able to tackle tasks with renewed energy and focus, ultimately boosting your productivity.
- Improved Decision-Making: When you’re burnt out, your ability to make sound decisions can become clouded. Taking a break can help you gain a clearer perspective and approach problems with a sharper mind.
- Enhanced Creativity: Feeling mentally stuck? Sometimes taking a step back is what you need. A break from the daily grind can spark creativity and help you approach challenges with new ideas.
- Stronger Work Relationships: Chronic stress can make you irritable and less patient with colleagues. Taking a mental health day can help you feel more positive and foster better working relationships.
Each one of these positives can help you be the best version of yourself. When you are on the top of your game, you’re more likely to get promoted and speed up your career progress.
How Do You Know It’s Time To Take A Mental Health Day?
You know that taking a mental health day is good for you. But, how do you know when it’s time to take one? There are emotional, physical, performance, and general signs. Use this checklist to see if you have some of the signs it is time for a mental break:
Work Performance Signs
- Difficulty meeting deadlines or completing tasks
- More errors or mistakes in your work
- Increased conflict with colleagues
- Withdrawing or isolating yourself at work
Emotional Signs
- Feeling constantly irritable or down
- Increased anxiety or feeling overwhelmed
- Dreading work or lacking motivation
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Physical Signs
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Headaches, muscle tension, or stomach aches
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Getting sick more often
General Signs
- Feeling disconnected from work or personal life
- Difficulty enjoying activities you used to like
- Using unhealthy coping mechanisms (increased alcohol/caffeine, etc.)
Do you exhibit some of these signs? It may be time to schedule a mental health day.
Answering Common Questions About Mental Health Days
Our recruiters often get questions from candidates about employers and their stance on mental health. They want to know if companies offer mental health days and have other programs in place to support employees. With that said, here are answers to common questions about mental health days and employers:
Is it okay to take a mental health day?
Yes, it is okay to take a mental health day. Just as you would take a day off to recover from physical illness, taking time to care for your mental well-being is important. It can help you recharge, reduce stress, and maintain overall health. Make sure to communicate with your employer about your need for a mental health day, and use the time to engage in activities that promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
Think of it like taking your car in for an oil change. You’re not waiting until the engine seizes up completely before giving it some TLC. A mental health day is preventive maintenance for your mind. It allows you to recharge and come back feeling refreshed and ready to be productive.
How should I tell my boss I need a mental health day?
Honesty is the best policy. If you need to take a day off, tell your manager as soon as possible. Keep your request brief. You don’t need to get into the details. Follow the proper process for requesting time off and schedule your mental health day.
How can I prepare to take a mental health day?
Preparation is important if you want to maximize the effectiveness of your time off. Here’s how to prepare:
- Plan Ahead: Choose a specific day that works best for you and communicate your need for the day off in advance if possible. Make sure any urgent tasks are taken care of before your day off.
- Set Boundaries: Disconnect from work emails, messages, and calls. Let your colleagues know you will not be available and set an out-of-office message if necessary.
- Create a Relaxing Environment: Stay in a comfortable and quiet place where you can relax without interruptions. Surround yourself with things that make you feel calm and happy.
What should I do on a mental health day?
There is no specific way to take a mental break. You need to do what is best for you. For some people it’s about completely disconnecting, for others they may just need to catch up on some sleep or do something enjoyable. Here are things you can do on your day off:
- Rest and Sleep: Sleep in or take naps if you need them. Rest and recharge without feeling guilty.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and increase mental clarity. Engage in deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.
- Get Physical: Go for a walk, do yoga, or engage in any physical activity you enjoy. Exercise can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
- Enjoy Your Hobbies: Spend time doing things you love, such as reading, cooking, painting, or playing music. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
- Spend Time In Nature: Spend time outdoors, whether it’s a hike, a walk in the park, or simply sitting in your garden. Nature can have a calming and restorative effect.
- Self-Care: Take a long bath, pamper yourself with a spa day at home, or enjoy your favourite comfort foods. Do things that make you feel cared for and relaxed.
- Get Social: Spend time with loved ones who make you feel supported and happy.
- Reflect: Take some time to reflect on what’s been causing stress or anxiety. Consider writing in a journal to process your thoughts and feelings. Think about ways to manage stress better in the future. Set small, manageable goals to help maintain your mental health.
A Final Word On Taking Mental Health Breaks
Taking a mental health day is about prioritizing your well-being and giving yourself the space to rest and recover. By engaging in activities that nurture your mental health, you can make the most of your day off and return to your responsibilities feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
More From Our Recruiters About Mental Health And Wellness
Are You Doing These 3 Fundamental Things to Support Your Workers’ Mental Health?
What Are Companies Still Getting Wrong with Employee Wellness Programs?
How to Ask About Work-Life Balance in an Interview Without Appearing Lazy
