BlackDoctor.org: How can a person get the most out of a mental health day?
Williams: Breaking up your routine allows you to see your problems different. Changing your environment to one that is more relaxing and calm can give you a different perspective or resolution. By taking time to yourself, it’s a chance to exercise self-care and self-indulgence. A new haircut, a day at the spa or lunch with friends helps you reconnect with yourself. It can also be a great boost for your self-esteem and confidence.
Dr. Coleman: Taking a MHD allows time for self-reflection. You can sort out what changes, if any, need to be made to improve your life. When you have a realization that you need a MHD, this is a sign that you haven’t been caring enough about yourself and need to make some changes in your life.
BlackDoctor.org: What happens if we neglect to exercise self-care?
Williams: When you work the typical 9 –5 job, rarely do you get the opportunity to know what’s happening in your community during those same hours. When you take a MHD, you get to do things that help you learn more about your community. This includes neighborhood concerts, museums, etc. A day of rest can be good for the body, too!
BlackDoctor.org: Any other MHD wisdom?
Dr. Coleman: Emotional and spiritual growth is not just addition, but subtraction. It comes from taking on new insights and habits and releasing old attitudes, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve us. Taking a MHD is a step in that direction and shakes up beliefs that we realize are not helpful.
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Maybe more mental health days will mean less calling in sick (or sick and tired) days. I’m putting a MHD date on my calendar!