Our mental health is one of the most important aspects of our overall well being. The state of our mental health affects all other areas of our lives, and when our mental health is poor or we are struggling with it, that can drastically impact how we operate on a day to day basis. When we ignore or neglect the internal call for care and support, we are quicker to burn out, treat ourselves poorly, and may lose our motivation and joy. 

In today’s busy, capitalist society, we have been conditioned to believe that our worth is only defined by our productivity. This is not true, and this can further negatively impact our mental state. This belief is harmful because it means that when we do feel the need to tend to our mental health, we may feel unworthy of resting, finding support, and being open about our needs with others. It is time to be brave, stand up for our mental health, and honor our need for healing and rest. 

As you read on, check in with yourself, and notice if these reasons for taking a mental health day resonate with you:

3 signs it’s time for a mental health day:

1. You are consistently feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious. When these emotions become our predominant experience throughout the day, it is definitely time to take a step back and commit to self care. These emotions can be so powerful and debilitating that they can even begin to drastically affect our physical health, manifesting as illness, headaches, chronic pain, and other forms of dis-ease. Take time daily to check in with how you are feeling, and when you notice yourself starting to spiral, take a step back and figure out what you need to do to best care for yourself at that moment. 
2. You are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. When life feels overwhelming and we have neglected our needs, it can be easy to fall into anxiety and depression. These experiences can be so heavy for our souls, and when we begin noticing that we are feeling this way, it is a sign that we need to realign ourselves and dedicate time and energy towards healing, self care, and finding loving support. Consider working with a therapist if this is a consistent experience for you. Depression and anxiety should not be taken lightly, and they are both signs that it is time to take 1 (or more) mental health days for yourself. 
3. You are struggling to focus or complete tasks at work or home. This is a sign that your energy is low, and unmotivated. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and trying to live your life from a place of emptiness takes a huge toll on the mind, body, and spirit. When you notice yourself being regularly distracted, unmotivated, and foggy, then understand that your body and mind are asking you to turn love, care, and attention inwards. Rather than focusing on tending to the needs, responsibilities and expectations of others- it is imperative that you take time out to focus solely on yourself. Fill your cup, replenish your energy, and treat yourself as the infinitely worthy, lovable, and special person that you are. 

At the end of the day, only you  know when you need to take extra time for rest. Even if the reasons on this list did not resonate with you, yet you still feel the call from within for rest and support, then I encourage you to honor that and claim what you need for rejuvenation and healing. You are your only mental health advocate, so be strong, do your best to let go of any feelings of guilt or shame that may arise as you tend to your needs, and know that you are worthy of taking this time. Your mental health is so important, and it’s time to treat it as such!