Ryan Graham Work Safety QLD
Mental health days are becoming more and more acceptable in today’s society. Employers are starting to see the importance of mental health days and are offering them as a benefit to their employees. Here we will discuss what mental health days are, why they are important, and how you can take advantage of them!
What is a mental health day?
A mental health day is a day that is taken off from work or school in order to focus on one’s mental health. This can be used to relax, de-stress, and take care of oneself. Mental health days are important because they allow people to recharge and come back to their responsibilities feeling refreshed and focused.
Why are mental health days important?
Mental health days are important because they allow people to take a break from their everyday lives and focus on their mental health. This is especially important in today’s society where we are constantly bombarded with stressors from work, school, and social obligations. Taking a mental health day can help reduce stress levels and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Signs you need a mental health day
- You’re feeling burnt out
- You’re constantly stressed
- You’re not sleeping well
- You’re feeling overwhelmed
- You’re having trouble concentrating
If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be time to take a mental health day and consider speaking to a professional if the symptoms are ongoing.
What does the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 say about mental health?
The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 requires employers to provide a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, including those with mental health conditions. This means that employers must take reasonable steps to prevent or minimise risks to the mental health of their employees.
If you are experiencing any mental health issues, it is worth speaking to your employer about what they are doing to comply with this act. If you feel like your mental health is being put at risk in the workplace, you can also contact SafeWork Australia for advice and assistance.
How many mental health days can you take?
There is no set number of mental health days that you can take, as it will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. However, some employers may use the term “personal day” instead of “sick day” to encourage employees to use the day for their own wellbeing, rather than only taking it if they are physically ill. This can help to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage employees to take care of their mental wellbeing.
You can get a medical certificate for mental health from your GP or psychiatrist. This can be used as evidence to support your need for time off work.
What should you do on your mental health day?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as everyone will have different needs and preferences. However, some ideas for things you could do on your mental health day include: taking a walk in nature, reading a book, spending time with friends or family, practicing meditation or mindfulness, doing something creative or just getting some much needed rest.
What to do if you’re struggling with mental health
If you are struggling with mental health, it is important to seek help from a professional. There are a number of services available to help you, including: your GP, mental health hotlines, a counsellor or therapist, or a support group. It is also important to reach out to family and friends for support. If you are feeling suicidal, it is vital to seek help immediately and call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you find yourself feeling burnt out, stressed, or overwhelmed, take a day for yourself and do something that makes you happy. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, so don’t hesitate to take a day off if you need it.
This guest post was submitted by the team at Work Safety QLD, who provide insightful guides, free resources and WHS Templates for construction businesses in Queensland.
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