Everyone needs a break sometimes. Just like we take a sick day when we catch a cold or have a fever, taking a mental health day from work is just as important. Our minds need rest and care, just like our bodies do. When we push through stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion without a break, it can affect our focus, performance, and overall well-being. A mental health day from work gives us the time and space to breathe, reset, and come back stronger.
What Is a Mental Health Day and Why Is It Important?
A mental health day off from work gives you an opportunity to focus on your emotional and mental wellness. It’s not a vacation, and it’s not about being lazy—it’s about protecting your mental health before things get worse. Just like we don’t wait for an illness to become serious before resting, we shouldn’t wait for burnout or emotional exhaustion to take over before pausing. Having a day like this can help you feel more centered, reduce stress, and improve your overall mental health.
When you give yourself permission to take a mental health day, you’re recognizing that your mind matters. You’re giving yourself the chance to step away from stress and recover, which is not only good for you but also good for your work in the long run.
Signs You Should Take a Mental Health Day Off Work
It’s not always easy to tell when you need a break. Many people try to push through tough days, thinking things will get better on their own. But ignoring the signs can lead to burnout or emotional breakdowns. Here are a few signs that it might be time to consider taking mental health days from work:
Feeling Mentally Drained or Burned Out
If you wake up feeling heavy or emotionally numb, that’s a red flag. You might be overwhelmed by responsibilities, or emotionally exhausted from life or work situations. This kind of burnout doesn’t go away with a good night’s sleep—it needs time and care.
Struggling to Focus or Get Work Done
If your mind is constantly wandering, or you find it hard to finish tasks that were once easy, stress could be taking a toll on your focus. Taking time off can help your brain reset and work better when you return.
Constant Fatigue Even After Rest
Feeling tired all the time—even after sleeping—can mean your mental health is being affected. Emotional and mental exhaustion often shows up as physical fatigue, and ignoring it can make things worse. On the other side of the spectrum, sleeping too much can also be a sign of work weariness and fatigue.
Losing Interest in Work or Daily Life
When you stop caring about things that used to matter, it might be a sign of depression or burnout. A mental health day can give you a chance to reconnect with yourself and think about what’s going on beneath the surface.
How to Request a Mental Health Day from Your Employer
Talking to your boss about mental health can feel awkward or uncomfortable, but more workplaces are becoming understanding of this need. You don’t have to share everything—just enough to communicate your needs and reasons for taking a day off from work for mental health. Here are some tips:
Use Simple and Professional Language
You can say something like, “I need to take a personal day for my well-being,” or “I need to step away for a day to recharge.” Then again, you can use the direct approach by simply inquiring, “Can I take a mental health day from work?” Keep it honest, but there’s no need to go into deep detail unless you’re comfortable doing so.
Review Your Company’s Time-Off Policy
Some companies have specific policies for personal, wellness, or mental health days. Knowing your options can help you feel more confident when making your request. If you’re unsure, speak with HR or check your employee handbook.
Give Your Team a Heads-Up if Possible
Unless it’s an emergency, try to let your supervisor or coworkers know when you’re taking a mental health day from work in advance. This helps with planning and shows that you’re being responsible, even while prioritizing your health.
Best Things to Do on a Mental Health Day
A mental health day isn’t just about lying on the couch (unless that’s what your mind and body need). The goal of taking mental health days from work is to spend your time in a way that helps you feel calmer, clearer, and more balanced. Here are a few ideas:
Get Extra Rest and Sleep
Lack of sleep can increase anxiety and stress. Use your day to catch up on rest without guilt. Even short naps can help your brain feel refreshed.
Go Outside for Fresh Air and Sunshine
Spending time in nature, even just a walk in your neighborhood, can boost your mood. Sunlight increases vitamin D and serotonin, both of which help you feel better mentally and emotionally.
Spend Time Doing Activities You Enjoy
Do something that brings you joy. This could be painting, baking, listening to music, or simply watching a movie that makes you laugh. Enjoying yourself, even for a short time, helps your brain reset.
Talk to a Therapist or Someone You Trust
Sometimes what we really need is to feel heard. Talking to a friend, a loved one, or a therapist can give you space to sort through your feelings and feel supported. If you have preexisting mental health concerns, such as depression or PTSD, a therapist can help you balance treatment for mood disorders as you negotiate your work environment when you return from your mental health day.
Benefits of Taking a Mental Health Day from Work
When you take a mental health day, you’re investing in your future health and success. It’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign that you’re taking control of your well-being. Some of the key benefits include:
- Better focus and productivity when you return to work
- Reduced stress levels, which can improve physical health too
- Improved relationships, both at work and at home
- A stronger sense of self-awareness, helping you notice your limits earlier in the future
Regularly taking care of your mental health is especially important if you’re already undergoing treatment for anxiety disorders or other mental health disorders. Why? Because consistent self-care can lower the risk of exacerbating these preexisting conditions, and it can also help you avoid long-term, chronic burnout.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health Is Always Worth It
So, can you take a mental health day from work? The answer is an emphatic yes, and you should if the situation calls for time away. Remember, there’s no shame in needing a break. We all have emotional limits, and knowing when to step away shows maturity and self-respect. Taking care of your mental health allows you to be more present, more effective, and more connected with the people around you. You deserve to feel well, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
If you find yourself needing mental health days more often, or if you feel like one day off isn’t enough, it might be time to talk to a professional. Help is available, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
When a Mental Health Day Isn’t Enough
Sometimes, stress or anxiety runs deeper than a single day off can fix. If you’re feeling hopeless, constantly overwhelmed, or emotionally stuck, taking a mental health day from work might not be enough, and it may be time to reach out for more support. Therapy, support groups, or mental health programs can give you tools to heal and grow.
At Neurish Wellness, a luxury mental health treatment center in Orange County, CA, we understand the challenges that come with mental health struggles. Our team is here to help you take the next step—whether that means one conversation or ongoing support. Your mental health matters, and we’re here to walk with you.
If you’re ready to talk or want to learn more about how we can support your journey, contact Neurish Wellness today. Your path to healing can start with one small step.
FAQs About Taking a Mental Health Day from Work
What's the difference between a sick day and a mental health day?
A sick day is usually taken for physical health issues, such as the flu or an injury, while a mental health day is meant for emotional or psychological well-being. Some companies allow both under the same “sick leave” policy.
Can my boss ask why I'm taking a mental health day?
Yes, but you’re not required to share personal details. You can simply say you’re taking a personal day or a sick day, depending on your company’s policies.
Is it okay to take a mental health day even if I'm not diagnosed with a mental illness?
Absolutely. You don’t need a diagnosis to feel overwhelmed or emotionally drained. Anyone can benefit from a mental health break.
How often should I take mental health days?
How many mental health days you can take from work depends on various factors. Your workload, stress levels, work environment, co-workers, and overall well-being should be considered when determining the length or frequency of time off. Some people need one every few months, while others may benefit from more frequent breaks. Listen to your body and mind.
Will taking a mental health day make me look unprofessional?
No. Taking care of your mental health is responsible and can actually improve your work performance.
Cole Dyar is the Executive Director & co-founder of Neurish Wellness. He has been working in the behavioral health field in operational, clinical, organizational, and managerial capacities for thirteen years. He holds a degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in sociology and is a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) as recognized by CCAPP. Cole holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology including: Organizational Leadership and Design, a Post-Masters in General Marriage and Family Therapy, and is currently a doctoral candidate in MFT with an emphasis in Systemic Administration & Entrepreneurship.