I often hear from clients about the pressure to always be working, achieving, and pushing themselves to the limit.
In a relentless pursuit of success or perhaps an attempt to avoid failure, the idea of taking a day off for mental health can trigger feelings of guilt, fear, and even shame. But let's address the question head-on:
Should you feel guilty for taking a mental health day?
The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Days:
First, I'll point out the obvious here. It's not a mental health day if you spend the day feeling guilty about taking it!
Let's also acknowledge that the stigma surrounding mental health has been prevalent for far too long. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it's time we treat it with the same level of respect and understanding. Taking a mental health day is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of self-awareness and care.
Clearly, not everyone has the same access to paid time off. There are factors I don’t want to ignore here. I remember the days of having to take time off of work to care for sick kids or receiving that dreaded phone call from school or daycare saying “your kid is sick, come pick them up.” Some of us care for our parents or have a chronic illness or disability that requires time off of work. It’s not always so easy to take a day off when we need it--especially when it may seem almost optional-- we aren't physically ill or don't have something on the calendar that requires it. Also, we may have work deadlines and the work has to get done.
BUT I have a question I’d like you to think about:
What if a person’s career success and even their productivity was achieved in spite of not taking enough time off from work rather than because of it?
I happen to believe this is true. I’m an advocate of providing people with flexible work options and true autonomy. Of cultivating work cultures that truly embody letting work be the least stressful part of a person’s life. Of trusting the work will get done but never at the expense of the person doing it. Of letting the mantra of every day be that very little is urgent and even less than that is an actual emergency. Of course, there are careers that involve life and death situations. This philosophy can still be applied, just in a different way.
The Importance of Mental Health Days:
Rest and Recharge: Just as our bodies need rest after intense physical activity, our minds need a break from the demands of daily life. Mental health days provide the opportunity to recharge mentally and emotionally.
Stress Reduction: The accumulation of stress can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. Taking a mental health day can be a proactive way to manage stress and prevent more severe issues.
Increased Productivity: Counterintuitive as it may seem, taking regular breaks, including mental health days, can actually boost productivity. A refreshed mind is more efficient and creative.
The Guilt Dilemma:
So, why do many people feel guilty about taking a mental health day? There are several common reasons:
Work Culture: In some workplaces, there's an unspoken expectation that employees should always be available and productive. This culture can make individuals hesitant to take time off.
Self-Imposed Pressure: Many individuals place immense pressure on themselves to excel in their careers. They may fear that taking a break will hinder their progress or damage their reputation.
Fear of Judgment: There's often a fear of judgment from colleagues or supervisors. People worry that any absence from work will be perceived as laziness or lack of commitment or in another negative way.
Overcoming Guilt:
You’re not a commodity or a robot: Remember your well-being is of paramount importance. You are a valuable asset to your workplace, but you are also a valuable individual who deserves care.
Communicating your absence: This is going to depend on your place of employment, the culture, and your judgment. Of course you need to let your employer know you won’t be at work. It may be as simple as saying you’re tending to a health related matter. You’ll use your discretion here.
Plan Ahead: Whenever possible, plan your mental health day in advance. Ensure your work responsibilities are covered, so you can truly disconnect.
Do you: Use your mental health day to engage in activities that genuinely relax and rejuvenate you. Do what works for you.
Remember your health, both physical and mental, is the foundation upon which your career success is built. By prioritizing your mental health, you're not only taking care of yourself but also enhancing your overall quality of life and your ability to excel in your career. So, embrace the idea that taking care of your mental health is not only acceptable but essential.
I know something brought you here and maybe it was a search for what to do next about your career. There are a few ways I can help:
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Cheering you on!
Christine
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