In our ultra productive and competitive society, more and more people are feeling the effects of work-related stress. Deadlines, late nights, lack of sleep and sometimes, neglecting our relationships can be a common. Making significant sacrifices in the name of work are widely agreed upon conditions of building and maintaining a successful career.
Understandably, a mental health day may be in order. If you find yourself feeling exhausted and irritable, if your stress levels are interfering with your quality of life, you would be completely justified in taking a day away from work for rest and rejuvenation.
You may also benefit from taking time to see a therapist. A therapist can help you build coping skills. If there are deeper issues to address, therapy can begin a healing process.
The effects of workplace culture
Unfortunately, for many people, it is wise to consider workplace culture before requesting a mental health day. Some companies have created a culture that is completely hostile to the idea. of taking time of for therapy or stress reduction. In some companies, an employee asking for a mental health day is equivalent to admitting weakness in a competitive and sometimes hostile workplace.
Other work environments may be especially accepting of mental health issues. It really depends on the culture. Fellow employees may celebrate the freedom that comes with benefits such as paid mental health days.
Issues to consider before you ask
- Know the work place culture before you ask. If you are a new employee, be sure to educate yourself and understand your companies policies and attitudes before you ask.
- Only give as much information as necessary. Your employer doesn’t need to know details about your past trauma or history with depression.
- Do your best to manage your own work load so your colleagues do not become resentful.
- If possible, be honest, do not pretend your problems are physical.
- Avoid using mental health days as a free day off if you don’t need it.
If you are struggling with work place stress or other mental health issues, therapy is often a helpful option. If you would like to learn more, you are welcome to call and schedule an appointment or fill out my contact form and click send.