Many people ignore signs of mental strain, convincing themselves to keep working through stress, fatigue, or emotional exhaustion. But taking a mental health day isn’t a luxury — it’s a practical way to maintain focus, prevent burnout, and support long-term well-being.
Recognizing when you need a break is an important part of staying healthy and effective at work. That’s where a mental health day comes in — a short, proactive pause to help you recover emotionally and return to work more focused and balanced. Here are some signs it may be time to take a break for your mental well-being.
1. Feeling Constantly Exhausted, Even After Sleeping
If you’re getting enough rest but still waking up tired, your fatigue might be more emotional than physical. Chronic stress, anxiety, or burnout can leave you feeling drained even after a full night’s sleep. A mental health day can give you space to rest without the pressure of daily tasks and help restore your energy before exhaustion turns into something more serious.
2. Easily Irritated or Overwhelmed
Are small inconveniences setting you off? Do routine emails or meetings feel unmanageable? If your patience is low and your stress response is high, it may be a sign your mental capacity is stretched too thin. Taking a day away from work can help you regain perspective and calm your nervous system.
3. Can’t Focus or Get Anything Done
If you’re staring at your screen and struggling to complete even simple tasks, your brain might be signalling that it’s had enough. A mental health day can provide the break you need to reset, reflect, and return with better concentration. Short periods of rest improve your concentration, energy, and overall health.
4. Loss of Motivation or Interest
If you’re usually engaged at work but suddenly find yourself indifferent or disconnected, pay attention. Losing interest in things you normally care about — known as emotional flatness — can be an early sign of burnout or depression. Taking a day off to check in with yourself can help you reconnect to what matters and decide whether you need further support.
5. Neglecting Your Basic Needs
Are you skipping meals, forgetting to hydrate, or putting off tasks like showering or exercise because everything feels like too much? When basic routines fall away, it’s a signal that your mental load may be overwhelming. A mental health day can give you time to reset your routine and prioritize self-care.
6. Experienced a Stressful Event
Whether it’s a personal loss, a conflict at work, or an unexpected life change, major stressors can affect your emotional resilience — even if you try to power through. Taking a mental health day after a tough experience allows you to process your emotions, get grounded, and prevent long-term mental strain.
7. Getting Through the Workday Feels Like a Struggle
Everyone has bad days, but if the thought of work fills you with anxiety, dread, or emotional heaviness, it’s time to take that feeling seriously. A break, even for a single day, can help you reflect on what’s contributing to your stress and consider whether you need a longer-term change.
Taking a Mental Health Day — and Making It Count
If you decide to take a mental health day, try to make it restorative. That doesn’t mean you have to meditate or journal (unless you want to). The goal is to disconnect from work, reduce stress, and give yourself space to breathe. Some ideas:
- Sleep in and start the day slowly
- Take a walk or spend time outdoors
- Talk to a friend or therapist
- Do something creative or relaxing
- Catch up on personal errands (if that relieves stress)
- Avoid checking emails or messages
Remember, a mental health day isn’t selfish or indulgent — it’s responsible. You’re protecting your well-being and maintaining your ability to show up fully when you return.
The Bottom Line
Recognizing when you need a mental health day is a key part of long-term wellness. By learning to spot the signs early and taking proactive steps to care for yourself, you’re not only protecting your health but also contributing to a more sustainable and supportive workplace culture.
If mental health challenges persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to your employer’s support programs, such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), or speak to a medical or mental health professional.
Your mental health matters — and it’s okay to take a day to protect it.
Employers: Show your team that well-being matters. Start by supporting mental health days with clear policies and access to the right tools.
Let us help you create or update workplace policies to support mental health in a meaningful way.
Resources for Workplace Mental Health
- The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) provides Healthy Minds@Work, a hub with tools and resources for supporting psychological health and safety in the workplace.
- Provincial Workers’ Compensation Boards, including WSIB Ontario offer resources for workplace wellness initiatives.
- Workplace Strategies for Mental Health, Canada Life, offers free articles and resources.
