7 Benefits of taking a mental health day.

A mental health day is a day to take a break and recharge from all that is going on, either through work, or other causes of stress. We all have a different and unique burnout cycle. The challenge is figuring out when it's time to take that break.

We all yearn for a day that we can set aside to get away from daily responsibilities, or the stress of work. A day to recharge and combat burnout or stress can be effective in working through one's mental health.

Take a Friday or a Monday off to prolong the weekend

A mental health day holds varied significance for different individuals. For some, it might be a day to complete errands, while for others, it could involve taking a leisurely walk. It's essential to remember that a day encompasses 24 hours. Prioritizing self-care is crucial.

Companies have so much to gain from investing in their employees’ mental health. Wellness increases productivity. And investing in employee wellness increases company loyalty and improves recruitment. 

Here are 7 Benefits to taking a mental health day.

#1 - Improve your mind and your mood

Mental health days enable employees to unwind emotionally and rejuvenate mentally. The aim is to lower stress levels and acquire fresh insights for tackling challenges in the workplace.

#2 - Mental health and Physical health go hand in hand

Taking mental health days for rest and rejuvenation can help workers sustain healthier lifestyles that nurture both their mental and physical health.

#3 - Workplaces that cultivate healthy workplace culture, have higher job satisfaction and productivity

After graduating with my Master's degree, my first job offered a unique incentive: one day off each month for mental health. We were told that the salary wasn't competitive because of this mandatory day off for all staff members. At that time, I was more concerned with earning a competitive salary and didn't appreciate the importance of this benefit. There were times I didn't want to take this day off, but it was expected of everyone. Looking back now, I highly recommend this practice of taking a day off to my clients, particularly those in high-stress work environments.

#4 - It helps in striking a healthy work life balance

Allocating a day to disconnect and subsequently reconnect can rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Mental health days act as an important prompt for employers to ensure a healthy work-life balance for their workforce.

#5 - It acknowledges recovery and recharge from stress or burnout

Taking mental health days allows us to reflect upon our emotional well-being and develop coping mechanisms to handle future obstacles.

#6 - It prevents a mental health crisis

Proactively scheduling mental health days enables employees to prevent burnout and maintain a balance between their work and personal responsibilities.

#7 -Having a day off from work can be a positive experience, especially when it is endorsed by the employer.

Prioritizing self-care and setting healthy limits for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential.

As you prepare for your Mental health day, consider the following:

• Make sleep, nutrition, hydration, exercise, and leisure activities like hobbies a priority. Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

• Disconnect from technology and immerse yourself in nature.

• Evaluate which option benefits you more: taking a Monday or Friday off to prolong your weekend, or a midweek day to break up the week and make it seem shorter.

• Seek support by speaking with a counselor or therapist, or by spending time with a supportive friend or family member who encourages you.

• Set up an out-of-office automatic response for your email and voicemail.

• Consider dedicating a portion of your day to establishing a routine for continuous self-care, such as beginning a morning practice of meditation or yoga.

  
  

Is having a mental health day one way to combat burnout stress? Is it possible for you to take one at your workplace? Let me know what you think in the comments.

Reference

www.nami.org/stigma/the-mental-health-movement-in-the-workplace/