Wondering if you need to take a mental health day? You’re not the only one! The workplace is increasingly stressful, with job burnout at an all-time high. But we’ve got a secret for you: taking a mental health day is something that can help… a day for you to recharge, reset and concentrate on you and you alone!

Why taking a mental health day matters for your wellbeing

Sometimes, you just need to give your brain a break. It’s about time you check in with yourself and to recognise when you need to take some time for yourself.

A mental health day provides the opportunity to step away from everyday pressures, reflect, and engage in activities that nourish your mind and body. By taking time to care for your mental health, you’re not only preventing long-term exhaustion but also boosting your resilience, emotional balance, and ability to handle future challenges more effectively.

If you’re nodding your head as you read this, maybe you need to take a mental health day… so keep reading.

Here are some signs you need to take a mental health day…

You feel more anxious than normal

Anxiety can present in a variety of ways: from racing thoughts, to panic attacks. You may experience chest tightness, abdominal discomfort and even shortness of breath.

Everyone experiences stress, particularly at work. But if you’re having a hard time snapping back to your usual mood after feeling particularly anxious, it may signify that you need to take a step back for a day of rest and recharge away from the office.

You’re exhausted: but can’t sleepsleep

Overworking yourself and stress can lead to physical exhaustion and can really affect your physical health. This can lead to two things: needing to sleep all the time, as well as being unable to sleep when you go to bed… not being able to switch off. Take some time to help quiet that noise and perhaps take an afternoon nap to get your sleep back on track… here are 5 ways to get your sleep back on track.

You’re unable to focus

Do you feel like there’s so much going on and you just can’t keep track of everything? This can lead to you making careless mistakes… which again, rise your stress levels. it can even lead to burnout. Stress can affect your memory and your ability to learn new things so it’s in your best interest to address it, rather than trying to plough through. Something as simple as taking that mental health day off and giving yourself a moment to regroup could help sharpen and realign your focus.

Your mood is low

Feeling down? Unable to shift that bad mood? Nothing seems to bring you out of that funk… taking a day can give you an opportunity to do something you enjoy, perhaps a hobby that’s been neglected. Something to help you feel good about yourself.

Your fuse is short

Everyone loses their cool every now and then… but if you’re feeling like you’re snapping at people more than usual, it could be a sign that something needs to be changed. You may have a lot of pent up emotion and energy–taking some time to move your body can be rejuvenating and restorative. A massage could also help!

Your body is complaining

Physical symptoms can be a manifestation of emotional feelings and can be a sign you need an emotional break, as well as a physical break. Headaches, stomach pain… they’re all physical indicators of excessive stress… as is that tension in your shoulders and perhaps even that nauseous feeling in your stomach.

Your Immune System is fragile

Health problems like getting sick more often than usual is a clear sign that your body needs a break… some time to rest and recharge–simple as that! Chronic stress can weaken your immune system and make you more prone to illnesses and can negatively impact your overall health. Your body is telling you to take some time off to rest… are you listening?

You feel disconnected

Are you feeling so buried in work that you feel detached from the outside world… unable to come up for air? If you feel like you’re withdrawing from your friends, family and the world around you, a mental health day may be in order to give you a chance to reconnect with others. Catch up on those messages you’ve left on read.

If these signs are resonating with you–perhaps it’s time to plan yourself a mental health day. It may surprise you how even just one day can help ease your anxiety at work, reduce your stress levels and boost your mood. But don’t stress about it: the whole idea of a mental health day off work is to relax so if planning anything like activities is feeling too daunting, don’t. Make it a day of rest. We’ve shared some some tips on how to self care when stressed if you’re interested in finding out more, along with 5 simple ways to practice self-care every day.

How to take a mental health day

So you’ve accepted you need to take a mental health day… what’s the next step? Here are some tips on how to take an effective mental health day.

Plan ahead

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want the added stress of a last minute change of plans. Where possible, schedule a mental health day in advance so you can clear your work and personal obligations and avoid stress during the day. This also ensures a smooth return to work.

Make sure to set boundaries

Tell those around you that you’re taking this time for yourself, so they respect your space and allow you this time.

Acknowledge your need

You’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally drained… it’s time to recognise that and listen to your body and mind. Choose yourself and do what’s best for you.

Unplug

Now is the time to detox! Disconnect from work emails, social media and other digital distractions… it’s your time to recharge.

Find things that feel restorative

This will be different to everyone… engage in activities that help you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. It might be a walk or reading, it could even be resting… spend some time find what works for you.

Rest and reflect

Use a mental health break to rest both mentally and physically. Take some time to reflect on what’s causing this stress and burnout and how you’re going to manage it moving forward.

Don’t feel guilty

Prioritising your mental health is vital for your long-term productivity and also your happiness. Don’t feel guilty taking this time for you.

There are many benefits of taking a mental health day… so if you need one, don’t hold off. A mental health break could be just what you need right now!

If the low mood persists and taking a mental health day (or longer time off) doesn’t help, it could be a symptom of something more serious such as depression and anxiety. As much as a mental health day can be helpful to give you a bit of a break, sometimes it’s not enough. You should consider talking to a professional to get further help if needed to help you manage your mental health issues. Don’t wait.