(Posted 2022 November)
If you’re so overwhelmed you can’t stop crying and a power nap just isn’t cutting it, you probably need more than a 15-minute walking break. It might be time for a mental health day.
First, disavow yourself of the notion that taking a day off when you’re stress sobbing is a luxury or a sign of laziness. Rest is a basic human need, and you’ll be no good to anyone if you’re not fully functional.
Hopefully, you can request time off at your workplace without providing a reason why you need the day. But if you don’t have a manager who understands the importance of mental health days, just say you’re not feeling well enough to work.
Then put your phone in another room, linger languidly over that cup of tea, stay in your pjs, get lost in one of the books on your nightstand, see a midday matinee, treat yourself to lunch at your favorite spot, go shoe shopping, or whatever you need to give your mind a break. No guilt allowed.
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