How to Call Off for a Mental Health Day?

Here are some tips on how to call off for a mental health day without getting in trouble at work.

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Check your company’s policy

before calling off, check your company’s policy on sick days and Mental Health Days. Some companies are now offering unlimited sick days, which can be used for physical or mental health days. If your company does not have a policy on unlimited sick days, find out how many sick days you are allotted per year and if there are any restrictions on how they can be used. It is also important to know if your company offers short-term or long-term disability insurance in case you need to take an extended leave of absence for your Mental Health Day.

Once you have checked your company’s policy, decide how you will explain the reason for your absence. You may want to say that you are not feeling well or that you need a day to focus on your mental health. It is important to be honest with your employer about the reason for your absence so that they can better support you in the future.

If you are feeling comfortable, you may also want to mention any steps you are taking to manage your mental health, such as therapy, medication, or self-care. By sharing this information, you may help to destigmatize Mental Health Days and encourage others to take care of their own mental health.

Talk to your boss

If you have a good relationship with your boss, tell them honestly how you’re feeling and that you need a day to recover. If you’re worried about getting in trouble or being seen as weak, don’t be. Your boss wants you to be productive, and sometimes the best way to do that is to take a day to rest and recharge.

If you’re not sure how your boss will react, try asking for a sick day first. If they’re okay with that, then you can tell them you’re not feeling well mentally and need some time off.

Either way, be concise and honest about why you need the day off. Most bosses are understanding and will be happy to give you the time you need, as long as you’re honest with them.

Find a coverage

Finding a coverage for your position is the best and most responsible way to call off. This includes finding a colleague to cover for your shift, class, or project, and providing as much notice as possible. In some cases, you may need to ask your boss or supervisor for permission to take the day off.

Give a heads up

Whenever possible, it’s best to give your boss a heads up that you might need a mental health day. This way, they can plan accordingly and won’t be surprised when you call off. Of course, there are times when you may need to call off last minute due to a sudden mental health crisis. In these cases, do your best to explain the situation to your boss and see if there’s any flexibility in terms of when you can return to work.