Make Self-Care Days Mandatory
Life is a lot. Between work, responsibilities, and the constant hustle, sometimes you just need to hit pause. And I’m not talking about a “binge Netflix for an hour and pretend that counts” kind of break—I mean a real mental health day. A day where you actually breathe, recharge, and put yourself first without feeling guilty about it.
So, if you’re feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or just straight-up exhausted, consider this your official permission slip to take that day off. No guilt. No excuses. You deserve it.
And if you’re wondering how to take a mental health day and actually make it count, don’t worry—I got you. Let’s break it down.
Knowing When You Need a Mental Health Day
Ever feel like your brain is running on fumes? That’s your body telling you it’s time to slow down. Some signs you need a break:
🔥 You’re constantly stressed – Everything feels overwhelming, and you’re running on empty.
😩 Burnout is creeping in – You’re exhausted, unmotivated, and just going through the motions.
🤯 Your mind won’t shut off – You can’t focus, decision-making feels impossible, and even small things feel like too much.
If any of this sounds familiar, congratulations! You officially qualify for a mental health day. And guess what? You do not have to wait until it gets to that point. Take a break.
How to Plan Your Mental Health Day Without Guilt
Step one: Tell work (or whoever needs to know) that you’re taking the day. No long explanations necessary. A simple “I won’t be available today” is enough. Your mental health matters—end of story.
Step two: Set your intentions. Are you looking to relax? Get outside? Do something fun? Make this day about what you need.
Step three: Keep it simple. You don’t need a jam-packed schedule of “self-care activities.” This is about rest, not productivity.
Things to Do on Your Mental Health Day
💆♀️ Self-Care (Because You Deserve It)
Sleep in. No alarms. No guilt.
Do a skincare routine you never have time for.
Take a long shower or bath with zero interruptions.
🌿 Get Outside (Because Fresh Air is Free Therapy)
Go for a walk, even if it’s just around the block.
Sit in a park, at the beach, or anywhere peaceful.
Garden, hike, or just lay in the sun for a bit.
📖 Do Something That Feels Good
Read a book (not an email, a book).
Listen to music or a podcast that makes you feel good.
Doodle, paint, or create something just for fun.
🧘♀️ Unplug and Recharge
Put your phone on Do Not Disturb for a while.
Skip social media—no need to scroll through stress.
Meditate, journal, or just sit in silence for a few minutes.
🍲 Nourish Your Body
Actually enjoy your food (instead of eating in a rush).
Drink some water—you’ll feel better instantly.
Cook yourself a meal you love or order from your favorite spot.
👯♀️ Socialize (If You Feel Like It)
Call or visit a friend who lifts your spirits.
Have a fun lunch date or cozy movie night.
If you need solo time, that’s cool too—honor what feels right.
Avoid These Common Mental Health Day Mistakes
Overcommitting – Don’t fill your day with errands or obligations. (I was notorious with this one.) This is about you.
Letting everyone know – Because as soon as people find out you’re “off,” they’ll start asking for favors. Keep it lowkey. I still talk too much. I am working it🤣💯
Neglecting your needs – Make sure you’re eating, hydrating, and actually resting.
Doomscrolling all day – Social media is fun, but too much can drain your energy. Give yourself a break from the noise.
Reflect & Carry That Good Energy Forward
At the end of the day, check in with yourself. What worked? What made you feel better? How can you bring more of that into your everyday routine?
Because let’s be honest—a single mental health day is great, but taking care of yourself consistently is where the real magic happens.
So don’t wait until you’re completely drained to take a break. Prioritize yourself regularly—your peace is worth it.
Stay kind to yourself and take the rest you need. 💛
Love & Light,
The Self-Love Goddess Chic