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Signs it's time for a mental health break

May 23, 2024  |  coping, mental health, self-care, well-being
ihatemondays

Be Kind to Your Mind:

Signs It’s Time to Take a Mental Health Break

We live in a fast-paced, demanding world, where it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When was the last time you took a break specifically for your mental health?

Just like our bodies, our minds need to rest and recharge. But you shouldn’t wait until you’re close to burnout or breakdown to step back. So, how do you know if it’s time for a mental health break? 

Here are 3 signs you need to hit pause:

 

#1: You’re Fatigued

How do you feel, really? If you’ve been “burning the candle at both ends,” it’s a sure sign that you need a break. Even if you get a normal amount of sleep, the mental fatigue of juggling life’s responsibilities can take a serious toll on your mind and body.

Taking a mental health break requires unplugging from digital devices and exploring healthy avenues for self-care such as walking, journaling, meditating, or simply talking to a loved one about how you feel.

 

#2: You Dread Mondays

Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unmotivated at the start of each week is another sign you need a mental health break. You may even experience physical symptoms that indicate something’s “off,” such as stomachaches, headaches, or a feeling of heaviness in your body.

Admitting that you need a break is not weak; it’s actually a sign of strength! When take the time to look after yourself and your mental health, you can come back and really be your best.

 

#3: You’re Not Engaging in the Activities You Love

Disconnecting from the hobbies, activities, and people you love can be an early warning sign of a mental health condition, particularly depression. If you’re beginning to put other responsibilities above the things you care about most in life, take a step back and reassess. Is it a temporary loss of interest, or a sign of something more?

Take action now to prevent burnout and prioritize your mental health, just as you would your physical health. A good place to start is by reaching out for help from a trusted friend or family member.

 

Be Kind to Your Mind!

Taking a mental health break doesn’t need to be time-consuming or complicated. You can even schedule daily mental health breaks in the form of short walks, 5-minute meditation sessions, or simply stepping away from your desk to pet your dog or cat. It’s all about being proactive and noticing when you need a break before stress escalates into burnout! 

For more helpful resources on stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, and more, visit our prevention and resources page. As your starting point for help, the Mental Health Recovery Board Serving Warren and Clinton Counties is here to connect you to a trusted network of providers ready to answer your questions about mental health.