Do mental health days count as sick days?

While a “traditional” mental health day generally includes taking a day off from work, it’s not necessary to call in sick to take a day to focus on stress relief.

Can you take a sick day for exhaustion?

That doesn’t mean you should call out sick whenever you’re a little tired or don’t feel 100 percent. But when you’ve been under a lot of stress and you’re feeling run-down, taking a personal day to yourself—just like you would if you had the flu—can help you rest and decompress.

Is it OK to take time off work for mental health?

It’s a law that helps protect your job when you need to take time off for your medical needs. You can also use FMLA to take care of a spouse, child, or parent. The short answer is that yes, FMLA does apply to mental health—but there are some things you should keep in mind.

Are employers required to give mental health days?

Conclusion. Employees can take a mental health day when their stress makes them unfit to work. However, an employer can ask for evidence of your personal illness. Although, taking a day off is not the only thing you can do to better your mental health.

How do you tell your boss you’re taking a mental health day?

Here’s how to request your day off in a way that feels comfortable, protects your privacy, and won’t make your boss question your commitment.

1. Consider your company culture.
2. Point out the benefits.
3. Make a work plan.
4. Prepare for any questions.
5. If you’re a boss, model self-care.
6. Actually take your mental health day.

When is it OK to take a mental health day?

They can include persistent headaches or migraines, fatigue, anxiousness, or being especially tearful. Essentially, if you aren’t feeling like yourself, you should probably take a mental health day. And if serious enough, seek help from a mental health professional.

Can I call out for exhaustion?

If you have been granted an interview for another position, use a vacation or personal day. Exhaustion is not a good excuse for getting out of work. If you tell your boss that you are too tired to come to work, you may sound like you are being lazy or that you don’t enjoy your job.

Can you get fired for taking a day off for mental health?

Laura Handrick from Choosing Therapy explains, “If your employer has 50 or more employees or you’re under federal contract, you are protected by federal labor and anti-discrimination laws that prevent your employer from penalizing you for taking time off for a mental health.” Depending on your workplace, asking for a …

Is it illegal to deny a mental health day?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects workers with health, mental health, and perceived disabilities. In the workplace, that means employers can’t discriminate against you (fire, discipline, demote) due to your disclosure of a mental health issue.