The rise of THE DOONA DAY
Why more workplaces are recognising the importance of mental health days
There are many reasons we ask for time off from work – when we’re sick, for family reasons or when we have travel plans. But an increasing number of employers are recognising the importance of another kind of holiday, one that’s continuing to rise in popularity.
Known as the doona day, it’s a way of taking time out to look after your mental wellbeing, while recognising that we all need a break sometimes.
“A mental health day or a doona day is a no questions asked, personal leave day that you can take if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed or are struggling to cope with work demands,” explains Madelyn Geldenhuys, associate professor of organisational psychology at the Australian College of Applied Psychology. “Taking a doona day can be a proactive step towards managing your own workrelated wellbeing.”
WHY NOW?
While the pandemic has created a lot of stress, it has simultaneously prevented many of us from going on holiday just when we need it most. Even sick days have become fewer and further between, with research showing employees are more likely to try to power through if they’re working from home.
Mitch Wallis, founder of emotional wellness and early intervention service Heart On My Sleeve says it’s essential to put aside time for self-care.
“Since the start of the pandemic, more than three quarters of Australian employees say they are working some form of overtime to complete set tasks,” he says. “The increase in workload and not being able to do the things we usually find joy and meaning in results in an imbalance: reduced energy inflow, with the same or greater expected energy outflow.”
He adds, “Because of this, it’s so important for all Australians to take a step back and evaluate what a healthy worklife balance means to them, and to communicate this with their employer to help achieve it.”
SHOULD I BE UPFRONT?
While most of us wouldn’t think twice about taking time off for our next big trip, telling your boss that you essentially want to spend the day on the couch watching Netflix can potentially feel more awkward. Attitudes in workplaces can vary, so it’s ultimately up to you how much you want to share.
“Deciding when and how to ask for a mental health day is a very personal choice and it’s up to the person to disclose as much as what they feel comfortable with,” Geldenhuys says.
While stigma around mental health does unfortunately still exist in some workplaces, Geldenhuys hopes those barriers will soon be broken down.
“If doona days are normalised, it sends a message that it’s OK to show you need a break sometimes, or that you are overwhelmed by work and by taking this time you can come back more motivated and focused on your work,” she explains.
START A CONVERSATION
If you’re worried that you’re struggling with burnout, Wallis recommends creating an open dialogue with your employer to establish and communicate what measures and boundaries will help you achieve a more sustainable work-life balance.
“Using this as a starting point will help to open up the floor to more discussions with your employer or direct manager on … what mental health, balance and wellbeing looks like in your workplace or worksite, especially when it comes to initiatives that can be implemented,” he explains. “The Allianz Workplace Mental Health Hub is a great resource that employers and employees can utilise to help them navigate this complex topic with confidence.”