Let’s face it… most of us work a 9-5 that doesn’t care about our emotions or mental health. Change is slowly coming with some cooperate companies recognizing and accepting mental health days, but not all of us are that lucky. Most of us work jobs that do not care about us or our health. Some of us cannot always afford to take time off may it be because of financial or work responsibilities.
The economy tanked every since COVID-19 and it became worse for the middle class to maintain their lifestyle. Most people are living pay check to pay check and can’t afford to take unpaid days off or use vacation days. So when do you find time for self-care or a mental health day? Not paying attention to your own needs can lead to depression, anxiety, burnout, and other stress related health problems. It’s important to think about your mental health and plan ahead for your self-care.
Is it possible to take time off work for mental health?
If you, your spouse, child, or parent have serious health conditions that require impatient care or continuing treatment then you may take FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act) leave. According to the US Department of Labor, if your employer employed 50 or more employees in 20 or more weeks in one year you are eligible to take time off for mental health.
Can you get fired for taking a mental health day?
How to take time off from work for your self-care
Plan Ahead
The best way to take time off but still be reliable is to plan ahead and give notices in advance.
Set Boundaries
If you asked me what boundaries were 3 or 4 years ago, I would have had no clue. Over the years, I slowly learned how to use them and how they can help create healthy environments. Boundaries are important and should also be implemented in your job life. This will avoid you from overworking yourself and growing resentful. Lay down the ground rules. Let your boss know what to expect from you and where you stand. If the agreement was that your vacation was going to be 2 weeks from now, but your boss requests that you cancel because he/ she might need some extra help during those times, you have the right to politely decline. It’s okay to say no; it’s called boundaries.
Set Aside Emergency Funds
Have a savings and an emergency fund in case you don’t get paid for your time off. Set yourself up so your financial situation doesn’t restrain you from taking time of to take care of your health.
