The Positive Impact of Taking a Mental Health Day

The Importance of Mental Health Days: Insights from Dr. Abinash Achrekar

In recent years, the conversation surrounding mental health has gained significant traction, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Abinash Achrekar, known as Dr. Ash and a resident cardiologist at the University of New Mexico Hospital, emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing mental health through regular mental health days.

A mental health day is defined as a designated period—whether it be a full day, a few hours, or even a brief pause—devoted solely to rest and rejuvenation. The intent is to alleviate stress and promote mental well-being, ultimately enabling individuals to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience. As Dr. Ash points out, “The goal is to help your brain and body feel better so you can deal with stress in a healthy way.”

Highlighting the impact of increased stress, anxiety, and sadness during the height of the pandemic, Dr. Ash noted that many individuals struggled with insomnia and emotional turmoil. While some return to routine was observed post-pandemic, these mental health challenges have persisted, spotlighting the importance of self-care practices. He emphasizes, “A mental health day gives you a chance to slow down and take care of yourself. It can help you feel less burned out, more focused, and even improve your physical health.”

Mental health days are not solely intended for adults; children can also experience overwhelming feelings and emotional strain. Dr. Ash advocates for encouraging young ones to take time for themselves, as this can foster emotional management skills and instill a sense of control over their feelings.

To maximize the benefits of a mental health day, Dr. Ash offers several strategies: “The key is to plan ahead. Try to unplug from phones and screens. Get some time outside, engage in physical activity, and participate in activities that bring you joy—be it listening to music, baking, drawing, or simply spending quality time with loved ones.”

The importance of mental well-being cannot be overstated; it is intrinsically linked to overall health. Dr. Ash succinctly astutely remarks, “Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body. A mental health day can be one simple step forward to feeling better.”

In today’s fast-paced world, prioritizing mental health is essential for a more balanced and fulfilling life. As societal awareness continues to grow, incorporating regular mental health days into our routines may serve not only as a preventative measure against burnout but also as a pathway to improved emotional and physical health.