From time to time we all experience stress, depression, anxiety, and other negative mental health periods of time. Whether from our relationships, home life, career, or other life factors, hard days and "down times" are an inevitable part of the human experience.
Unfortunately, when our stress levels become too high, it can lead to poor mental health or burnout, which is not a sustainable state of being. So if you have been feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, it might be time for you to take a mental health day.
WHAT IS A MENTAL HEALTH DAY?
A mental health day is when you take a step back from your day-to-day responsibilities to allow your mind and body to recharge. It can be vital in alleviating stress and allowing yourself to address your mental health, while avoiding total burnout.
Taking a mental health day is like pressing the reset button. It can help you regain focus and motivation and give you some more fuel in the energy tank to better tackle life's challenges.
WHAT DO I DO ON MY MENTAL HEALTH DAY?
Sometimes it's an easy answer; you're exhausted, you rest. The hard work is getting to you; go blow off steam and have some fun. But sometimes, when you're feeling overwhelmed, you may not always know exactly what you need.
Mental health days will look different to everyone, but here are some guidelines to consider:
Rest: Sleep and rest are an essential part of good mental and emotional well-being. So do your mind and body some good and go to sleep at a reasonable hour.
Nutritious Foods: You've probably heard this before, "you are what you eat". Make sure to feed yourself healthy, nutritious food. You will notice that it will give you a boost in physical and mental energy.
Device Detox: Like our food, we also need to consume good and healthy information. Try putting down your phone, staying off social media, and not watching TV. Instead, work on a puzzle, read a book, take a long walk, or work on your hobby.
Connecting: Consider taking some time to connect with the positive influences in your life. Whether it is a phone call or meeting up for some coffee. It doesn't have to consume your whole day, but taking some time to be with the people that lift you up will be beneficial to your mental health.
Scheduling a periodic mental health day will go a long way in helping you avoid emotional, physical, and mental burnout. Sometimes you need more than a day, that's okay, sometimes you need some support from a therapist, that's okay too.
Taking charge of your mental health is one of the most important things you can do. If you need some support or would like to set up a session, give me a call - I am here to help you get back on track toward living your best life and boosting your mental health.
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