Mental health days are vital for everyone. They provide a necessary pause to recharge and address our mental well-being. In fact, depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy $1 trillion each year, according to World Health Organization estimates. Your mental health is important for many reasons.
We’re not machines. While today’s culture often pushes us to do more and produce more, it’s crucial to remember that mental well-being is just as important as physical health. The message from employers should be: Your well-being matters because you're human.
According to the WHO, companies that prioritize mental health reduce absenteeism, enhance productivity, and gain economic benefits. While these outcomes are positive, is economic gain the primary reason we should care about mental health in the workplace?
“The discussion around investing in mental health often centers on productivity metrics, which can feel dehumanizing,” explains Melody Wilding, a workplace performance coach. True engagement and purpose at work are key factors that contribute to longer tenures, better performance, and stronger teams, she adds.
To truly engage with your work, you need to maintain a balanced mental and emotional state. Sometimes, that balance requires taking a mental health day.
What Is A Mental Health Day?
Dr. Camille Preston, a business psychologist, differentiates between two types of mental health days. Those with diagnosable mental health conditions may need time off to manage their symptoms, while others may simply require a break to recharge. “Mental health isn’t just about disorders; it’s about overall mental wellness,” adds Wilding.
Just like we take sick days for physical illness, mental health days serve the same purpose for our minds. “They are essential for maintaining focus and energy,” Wilding emphasizes. Mental and emotional health may seem less tangible, but they significantly impact overall health.
When Should You Take One?
The answer is straightforward: take a mental health day when you feel you need it. “Many of us don’t recognize that mental and emotional maintenance is as crucial as physical care,” says Wilding. Just as we exercise to stay fit, we should cultivate mental fitness for our overall well-being. If you notice increased irritability, judgment, or mistakes at work, it may be time to step back, suggests Preston.
Requesting A Mental Health Day
Paid time off (PTO) is becoming more common, allowing employees to use their days as needed without explaining the reason. Wilding notes that PTO offers more freedom and privacy: it’s your time to take as you see fit.
However, if your workplace doesn’t offer PTO, how can you request a mental health day? What should you tell your boss?
Your approach depends on your workplace culture, your relationship with your manager, and your comfort level with disclosure. Wilding advises checking in with yourself about these factors.
Preston suggests reviewing your HR policy and framing your request within those guidelines. If you know in advance that you’ll need time off, she recommends saying: “I’ll require a day off on X date for health reasons. I want to ensure everything is handled while I’m away, so here’s what needs attention. Is there anything else you need from me?”
This way, you address your responsibilities while also prioritizing your health.
Sometimes, you won’t be able to plan for your mental health needs. If you must inform your employer on short notice, remember you don’t need to share excessive details. “Simply state that you’re taking a personal day,” Wilding recommends. “No need to over-explain.”
If you have a good rapport with your supervisor, frame your absence as beneficial for both sides: your improved mental state will enhance your work output. This shows your commitment to delivering your best performance while seeking what you need to achieve it.
