You roll over in bed and begrudgingly hit the snooze on your alarm for the third time. You know if you do it one more time, you're going to be late. There's a hollow feeling in your chest, and your eyes burn as you feel the physical exhaustion from being up too late last night doing homework or not getting enough rest to recover from that rough shift at work. All you want to do is burrow further into your blankets and never leave the warm sanctuary that is your bed. We've all had those mornings.
Should you skip class? Should you call off work? Should you blatantly ignore life itself?
Most days, no, you shouldn't. You do have responsibility, after all. However, I believe in the principal that you are entitled to a mental health day every once in awhile. If you've reached that point where you feel incredibly burnt out, it's best to take care of yourself before anything else. Your health and mental well-being should be your top priorities. Taking a mental health day can drastically relieve stress and tension, and you can catch up on some well deserved and well needed rest. It will help you take on the rest of the week feeling refreshed and recharged, as well as happier overall.
Disclaimer: If you decide that today is the day to take care of yourself, double check it's a day that won't come back to bite you. Make sure your boss won't plan to fire you when you call off and make sure you don't have any important, grade-saving tests that day.
First of all, I would recommend sleeping in. Surround yourself in blankets and pillows. If you have a beloved pet, let them curl up next to you. Catch up on those z's without a worry in the world. Don't sleep the day away, though! Aim for some time before noon so you have plenty of time to give yourself some TLC. Changing out of pajamas isn't necessary when you wake up, but if you want to throw on some clean clothes, make sure you're comfortable.
Cook some brunch. Something simple but delicious and filling. My breakfast of choice is usually French toast. Watch some mindless television or YouTube videos while you eat. Watch something that makes you laugh. Today is a day to make yourselfhappy, so you get to decide!
Most times on my days off, if I'm unable to pick up a hobby for awhile because I've been so busy, I turn to working on something I've been slacking on. It's therapeutic to do something you enjoy but haven't been able to focus on. Painting, playing an instrument, writing, practicing a sport, playing a video game, reading a book (for your pleasure, instead of as an assignment!), watching your favorite movie on Netflix— any activity you love will help you release stress.
Make your favorite comfort food for dinner and don't forget to drink lots of water throughout the day!
As the day winds down, take a long hot shower to collect your thoughts and clear your mind while the water relaxes your muscles. Put on your favorite pajamas and climb into your bed again. I like to wash my sheets during the day too, so they're nice, clean and warm. Turn off your phone and don't worry about anyone texting or e-mailing you. Now's your time to just breathe. Remember you're alive, remember you're human and remember you're here and everything's going to be okay. Just relax. Even if you have to return to the chaos of everyday life tomorrow, take this time to reflect on yourself. You'll be able to sleep easier that way.
Mental health days are important because often times we are moving in such a fast-paced lifestyle, we forget to stop and smell the roses. We forget to take inventory on ourselves and not prioritize. A couple days a year dedicated to yourself can make a world of difference.
