Just as you would take time off work to recover from an injury or a cold or a flu, you may also require some time off to care for your mental health. Moreover, there are several warning signs to look out for that can actually indicate you’re on the verge of a mental breakdown.
When you’re anxious or overworked, the best thing you can do is take a mental break. Taking a break from this rushing world could literally save you. Taking some time off from your computer or phone can offer your brain a much-needed rest, allowing you to perform more effectively when you return. It may seem overwhelming to take a mental break, but it is necessary to take time for yourself. If you take a break from your desk, you’ll feel better both mentally and physically. Find a quiet spot where you may be alone and unplugged. This can be as easy as taking a walk or sitting in a park, or as sophisticated as spending time away from your desk doing something relaxing, such as yoga, crocheting, or reading.
But how can you know when it’s time for you to rest your brain? When things become too much for your mind to handle, your body may send you a series of minor but important signals. Symptoms of exhaustion may differ from person to person, but if you notice any of the following signs in yourself, it may be time to take a step back and calm down:
1. You feel sick or unwell all the time
You have a persistent cough that refuses to go away. You’ve got a throbbing headache that feels like it’ll split your head in half. Or you’ve got a stomach ache that makes you want to go to the bathroom frequently. Regardless of the symptoms, you are always in a bad mood.
What causes this to happen? Because our life’s most important events cause us to experience a great deal of stress, it takes a toll on our bodies. Take a mental break and prepare for a busy week by sticking to a plan that allows you to get the sleep and nourishment you need to feel better and perform your best.
2. You are neglecting yourself and your body
It’s obvious that you haven’t been eating well or exercising regularly. Your body is weakening and becoming less healthy. You haven’t felt like yourself in a long time. It’s time to take a break if you’re fatigued, stressed, or depressed. Even while your responsibilities are necessary, your health is your number one priority — and failing to look after yourself will only add to the stress you are currently experiencing. A mental break is a terrific opportunity to build a routine that will stop you from ignoring your health and set you on the path to a higher quality of life, in addition to allowing your body to relax.
3. You’re always tired and can’t sleep
The majority of the time, you are fatigued and worn out. You don’t feel like doing things very often, and when you do, it takes a lot of effort. It’s difficult to keep your eyes open when you feel like you’re carrying a big load. Your sleep pattern is also messed up. It’s reasonable that you’re feeling anything but at ease, with numerous thoughts racing through your mind and worry accompanying them. Therefore, a mental break will provide you with the necessary fresh air and sleep.
4. You lack any enthusiasm and motivation
You’re constantly sad and depressed, with little motivation. At work and in your personal life, you may feel as if you’re going through the motions. Although being conscious of how you’re feeling is beneficial, it’s concerning when that sensation is depressed and unmotivated on a regular basis. However, there are ways to break out from this rut and return to your old self. Perhaps you simply require a change of environment. Accept that you may require a mental break to get back on track and return stronger than before.
5. You can’t focus
You don’t seem to be able to concentrate effectively. You’re often distracted, and staying focused on a single activity is difficult. You can even feel as if your thoughts are blurry.
When you have too much going on at work or at home that your brain can’t keep track of everything, you’re more likely to make careless mistakes and endure even more stress. At this point, taking a break from the craziness can help you reorganize your thoughts and focus.
6. You feel disconnected
Sitting in front of a computer, buried so deeply under a pile of to-dos that you barely have time to come up for air, is one thing that can make you feel disconnected from the rest of the world. Life can feel like it’s passing you by at times. You don’t know where you belong and feel cut off from the rest of the world. You have no idea who you are or where you are headed. When you find yourself unintentionally distancing yourself from the ones you love and care about, it may be necessary to take a mental break to literally touch some grass and reconnect with your social circle—and yourself.
REST AND RESET
Whatever you do on your day off will only work if you do it with all your heart. You must maintain your mental and physical health before you can accomplish your deadlines, responsibilities, and commitments. Recognize the symptoms that it’s time for a mental health break from work if you’re on the verge of exhaustion – and take action. Taking a mental health day from time to time allows you to focus on your wellness and, if necessary, seek professional help.
