When is it Okay to Call in Sick for Mental Health?

Have you ever considered calling in sick for a day because you are battling a deep sense of depression? In some cases, it might be the best decision. This article explores the reasons why taking a mental health day is beneficial, especially when things are really bad, and offers insights on how to navigate this decision in the workplace.

Understanding the Impact of Depression on Your Work

Mental health issues, such as depression, can severely impact your ability to function in the workplace. When you're feeling overwhelmed by depression, your focus may become scattered, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks. Additionally, depression can sometimes lead to feelings of anger or irritability, which might not be conducive to a professional environment. Taking a day off to prioritize your mental health can be the best decision for both you and your employer.

The Benefits of Taking a Mental Health Day

While it might seem counterintuitive, taking a day off when you're feeling extremely depressed can actually benefit your overall well-being. Here are the key reasons why:

Reducing Workload and Stress: When you're dealing with depression, your ability to handle daily tasks can be significantly impaired. By taking a mental health day, you can avoid exacerbating your condition by facing overwhelming workloads. This allows your mind to rest and rejuvenate, leading to better mental clarity and productivity in the long run.

Preventing Burnout: Prolonged exposure to emotional distress without a break can lead to burnout. By stepping away from work for a day, you can give yourself the space to focus on self-care and mitigate the risk of burnout.

Improving Decision Making: Making crucial decisions when you're depressed can be challenging. Taking a mental health day can provide the necessary time to assess your situation, make informed decisions, and return to work feeling more prepared and resilient.

Navigating the Challenges: Workplace Policies and Procedures

For many, the idea of taking a mental health day is hindered by workplace policies and procedures. Let's explore the unique challenges faced by workers in different environments:

Company-wide Employee Hotlines

In some companies, employees might be required to call a company-wide hotline to report their absence. These hotlines often do not allow for direct communication with a representative. Instead, you might need to select a pre-defined reason for your absence and provide a contact number for your manager. This cumbersome process can be frustrating and may deter individuals from taking the day off when they need it.

Scheduling and Communication Through Apps

Modern workplaces often rely on employee apps for scheduling and communication. In scenarios like this, it can be nearly impossible to contact your immediate supervisor outside of designated work hours. This rigidity can make it challenging to address mental health needs promptly. Employees may find themselves in situations where they have to clock in and out of work, even when they require personal time for self-care.

Examples from Previous Experiences

Recalling a past experience working at Walmart, an individual shares the difficulty in reporting their absence due to depression. The company had a strict policy that didn't enable direct communication with a supervisor, forcing employees to miss crucial moments for communication. This led to frustration and less than ideal situations, especially when trying to address urgent health concerns.

Contrastingly, a current role at Subway highlights the positive impact of management understanding and support. The manager at this location has made an effort to get to know the employee, which makes it easier to discuss and address mental health issues. This environment encourages employees to take care of themselves without the fear of judgment.

Another example involves taking unpaid medical leave due to pregnancy complications. A phone call during a non-working day informed the employee of the approved leave, showing that the company prioritizes the well-being of its employees in critical situations.

Conclusion

When you're grappling with depression, taking a mental health day might be one of the best decisions. It allows you to rest, focus on your well-being, and return to work with renewed energy and clarity. Employers should consider creating policies that support mental health days, ensuring that employees feel comfortable and supported when they need a break.