If you had the flu, you probably wouldn’t hesitate to call in sick to work or school to recover. And if you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or exhausted, a mental health day may be just what the doctor ordered.
“Self-care practices like proactively taking mental health days can be extremely effective tools to reduce the risk of burnout, chronic stress, and depression,” says Iman Hypolite, MD, an Atlanta-based psychiatrist who offers teletherapy in several states. “Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s foundational.”
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Mental health days are breaks from sources of stress or frustration that allow you to focus on nourishing your emotional well-being.
Ideally, you’d be able to take these rest periods as needed, but if you can only do so occasionally, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Remember that it’s not just a day off; you can use the time intentionally to do things that will help you reset and recharge, says Ritu Goel, MD, a psychiatrist based in Long Beach, California. “Choose meaningful ways to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.”
Here are some tips.
