4 signs it’s time to take a ‘mental health day’
THE majority of us have had to adjust to working remotely, blurring the boundaries between our professional and personal lives.
Working from home can be a nightmare – a simple beep from my phone shoots my anxiety through the roof. “Could it be from work? Is there something I didn't do?” are questions that come to mind.
A 2020 study, conducted by workplace consultancy firm Giant Leap, revealed that 86% of South Africans wanted to go back to working in an office.
Some felt frustrated and isolated, while others missed their office vibe and colleagues. Here are some of the signs it's time for a “mental health day”:
Feeling lonely
Given that we spend most of our days cooped up in our rooms working, this is understandable. Unwinding over coffee and small talk with a colleague is no longer an option.
Withdrawn socially
This might happen without you even noticing. You may be socially withdrawn if you don't want to make plans, engage in conversation, or talk with others.
Negative thoughts
Pessimistic thinking, or personalising other people's negativity or feedback, are examples of negative thoughts.
Issues sleeping
When you have trouble falling asleep, you toss and turn a lot, which makes you feel sluggish when you wake up.
What does a “mental health-care day” look like?
It could be as simple as taking a day off from work to recuperate, preferably outdoors. According to the health-care site, NHS, talking about your feelings with a friend, family member, health professional, or counsellor can be also therapeutic.