In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of prioritising mental well-being has never been more apparent. As the stresses of work, family, and daily life continue to mount, people around the globe are increasingly recognising the value of taking a mental health day - a dedicated time to step away, recharge, and tend to their emotional needs.
Recent studies have shown that the benefits of a mental health day can be profound. Research has found that taking time off to focus on mental health can lead to improved cognitive performance, reduced stress levels, and even better physical health.
One study even suggested that listening to calming music during a mental health day can help manage pain and improve sleep quality.
Yet, for many South Africans, the idea of taking a day off work for mental health reasons remains a taboo or misunderstood concept.
However, as the country continues to grapple with the mental health challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the need for a cultural shift in how we approach self-care has become increasingly urgent.
What is a mental health day and why do you need one?
You might have heard a friend or colleague mention taking a “mental health day” and wondered what it really means.
Simply put, a mental health day is a break from your usual responsibilities, aimed at recharging and rejuvenating your mental well-being.
According to Mayo Clinic Health System, it’s a deliberate effort to relieve stress, improve your mood and boost your overall sense of well-being.
However, the term “mental health day” can be a bit misleading. It doesn’t necessarily mean just one day. It could be as short as an hour, a half-day, or even longer — like a week or month — depending on what you need.
The key is to take enough time to reap the benefits without creating more problems for yourself in the long run.
The benefits of taking a Mental Health Day
Taking a mental health day can do wonders for your mind and body. Here are a few ways it can help:
Reduced feelings of burnout
We’ve all felt burned out at some point, whether it’s from work, caregiving, or other responsibilities. Taking a mental health day allows you to focus on yourself, helping to alleviate that sense of burnout.
Improved morale and attitude
A mental health day can help you recentre yourself, experience gratitude, and improve your mood. By focusing on things that bring you joy, you can come back to your tasks with a fresher, more positive outlook.
Increased resiliency
Resiliency is your ability to bounce back from stress or changes without feeling overwhelmed. Taking time off can help you establish boundaries and develop coping skills, making it easier to handle future stress.
Reduced isolation and loneliness
Burnout often leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Using your mental health day to connect with a friend over lunch or spend quality time with family can help you feel more connected and supported.
Prevention of mental health crises
For those diagnosed with mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, a mental health day can be a crucial tool in preventing crisis situations, such as a major depressive episode or panic attack.
It’s an opportunity to set healthy boundaries and communicate your needs to those around you.
Boosted productivity
Taking a short break from your responsibilities can actually make you more productive and efficient when you return. Sometimes, stepping away is exactly what you need to refocus.
Reduced presenteeism and long-term absenteeism
“Presenteeism” refers to being physically present at work or in your daily life but not fully engaged. Long-term stress and burnout can lead to prolonged absences or even quitting your job.
A mental health day can help you stay engaged and diligent with your responsibilities.
Improved physical health
Chronic stress can take a toll on your body, affecting everything from your sleep and digestion to your heart health and weight. Taking a mental health day can help you manage stress, which in turn can improve your overall physical health.