7 Signs That Scream You Need To Take A Mental Health Break

As a parent, it can be easy to put your well-being on the back burner, especially when managing work, lengthy to-do lists, and caring for your family. Finding time for yourself can be downright difficult! And sometimes, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed and tired. If you’re feeling like this, it might be time to take a break…MENTALLY. If you answer yes to one or more of these seven signs, it’s probably your body’s way of saying, “Time to take a mental health break!” So let’s get to it.

5 Signs That Scream, “Take A Mental Health Break!”

1. Erratic Sleep Pattern

If you’re having trouble sleeping, you’ll begin to feel the impact on every aspect of your life – low-energy levels, erratic mood swings, and decreased productivity.

Especially if you’re tired all the time, even despite getting a whole night’s sleep, it could be your body’s way of saying, “I’m burned out!”

If sleeplessness becomes consistent, it’s a clear indicator of mental stress. In such cases, you must give yourself some time off and stick to a comfortable sleep schedule to avoid exhaustion.

2. If You’re Feeling Irritable Or Easily Angered

If you get short-tempered or snapping at your loved ones, it may be a sign that you’re dealing with built-up stress or anxiety.

When we’re overwhelmed, our emotional reserves can run low, and regulating our moods and reactions can be difficult.

Taking a mental health break can help you reset and better manage your emotions, whether booking a massage, practicing mindfulness, or just taking a day to do something fun and stress-free.

3. Lack Of Focus And Clarity

Do you feel unclear and fuzzy-headed most of the time? Do you find focusing on specific aspects of your life increasingly tricky? This lack of focus and clarity can signal signs of mental exhaustion.

Our brains need regular breaks to function at their best, and trying to power through when we’re overloaded can lead to a lack of focus and decreased productivity.

Take a mental health break by doing something that relaxes and rejuvenates you, like reading a book, taking a bubble bath, or spending time in nature. Even a meditation session can help improve concentration, cognitive abilities, and overall mental health. When you take time for yourself, you’ll have clarity and feel more focused, giving you a fresh perspective on life.

4. Overwhelming Stress

Is your daily routine leaving you feeling constantly stressed and overwhelmed?

When you start feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day tasks and routine activities, it clearly shows burnout.

You’ll feel tired, anxious, and unmotivated to complete tasks. Stress can lead to anxiety and depression, negatively impacting your mental health.

It’s essential to identify the root cause of the stress and plan for a mental break to get back to the routine. You can take some time off work or give yourself some alone time to unwind and destress. You owe it to yourself and your family.

5. Physical Exhaustion

Physical and mental health are interdependent. Therefore, when you begin to feel physically drained, it also impacts your mental health. You will lack enthusiasm or focus for your work and family.

Physical exhaustion is a common symptom of depression and anxiety, and it can be a signal that you need to take a step back and prioritize your mental health.

Consider taking a day off work to rest and recharge, or asking a friend or family member to watch the kids so you can take a nap or go for a walk. It’s crucial to listen to your body and take a break to give yourself time to heal.

6. Social Withdrawal

When you start feeling social burnout, you will withdraw from social interactions. You tend to avoid socializing with friends and family or participating in other social activities. It’s a clear sign of mental exhaustion, and taking time off to regroup and recharge your social skills is crucial.

7. You’re Not Finding Joy In The Things You Love

If hobbies and activities that used to bring you joy now feel like a chore or burden, it’s a sign that you may be burned out or need a mental health break.

Our interests and passions can shift over time.

Still, if you’re feeling consistently uninterested in things that once brought you happiness, it may signal that something deeper is going on. Take a mental health break to reflect on what matters to you, and to make space for activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

How To Take A Mental Health Break

Taking a mental health break can be the BEST thing you can do for yourself when life gets overwhelming.

The first step is recognizing and acknowledging that you need a break. Feeling guilty about taking time off is not uncommon, but self-care is crucial for your mental and physical health.

Next, what activities or practices help you relax and recharge?

Make a mental note or write it down and stick to it. It could be reading a book, hiking, practicing mindfulness, or simply napping. Make sure it brings you joy and is not something you feel obligated to do.

Lastly, disconnect from the stressors during your break, like unplugging from social media and turning off notifications. This could also mean taking time off work or other responsibilities. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential, and a well-deserved mental health break can make a huge difference in how you feel!

Why Your Mental Health Is Important

Maintaining good mental health is crucial for leading a happy and fulfilling life. But what exactly does that mean? It means taking care of your mind just as you would your body.

Like eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep, you must also take proactive steps to support your mental health and well-being. This might include practicing mindfulness, taking time for self-care, seeking counseling or therapy when needed, and being kind to yourself.

Ultimately, investing in your mental health is an investment in your overall wellness, and it can help you live a more balanced and enjoyable life.

If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry – plenty of resources and support are there to help you. So, take care of your mind and prioritize it because YOU deserve it!

FAQ

Is it OK to take a mental health break?

Taking a mental health break can look different for everyone, whether taking a day off work, practicing mindfulness, or simply spending time in nature. Whatever it may be, it’s crucial to listen to our needs and take the necessary steps to recharge.

Remember, taking a mental health break is not only okay but also necessary for our overall well-being.

How long should I take a mental health break?

It’s different for everyone! Some people might need just 10 minutes or one day to reset, while others may need a week or more.

Ultimately, the length of your break should be based on your own needs and the demands of your life. Taking a proper break means stepping away from the stressors of your daily routine, so prioritize your well-being during this time.

How often should you take a mental health break?

It’s important not to underestimate the power of a good break. Taking a step back from the daily grind of life can do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being.

But how often should you be taking these breaks? The answer will vary from person to person, but a general rule of thumb is to aim for at least one mental health break per week. This could be as simple as taking a solo walk in nature, indulging in a favorite hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones.

SHOP: Best-Selling Mental Health Resources

To Wrap It Up

Many of us ignore the signs of mental strain as we carry out our everyday routines. But, it’s essential to understand that giving yourself a mental break can help you feel better, more centered, and more productive and ultimately benefit your family. The seven signs above are clear indicators that scream, “Take a mental break!”

I hope this post encourages you to prioritize your mental health and plan for a well-deserved break to reset your mind and recharge your batteries. Remember, caring for yourself makes you a better, happier person and parent!

With gratitude,

Linds

Do you have anything to add or share that I didn’t cover in this post? Let me know in the comments below. Your input is essential and helps other parents who read this post!

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About The Author

Linds is the proud mom of two little miracles, Mono Mono twin girls, and one AMAZING older brother! She is the founder and content creator of Mono Mono Twins, Intensive Therapy for Kids, and Co-Founder of The LENN Foundation, a 510c3 that helps children with cerebral palsy receive grants for intensive therapies to thrive. ♥

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