Generally, when people mention "taking a mental health day," they mean that they need to take a day off to rest, rejuvenate, and regain perspective, or to stave off burnout. This is usually a day take off of work or school, but mental health days can also be taken on weekends. This type of mental health day can be taken by anyone, and, when approached proactively, can help reduce stress in a somewhat lasting way. Learn more about how to take a mental health day as effectively as possible for stress relief, and make changes to promote stress relief in daily life.
"Mental health day" may also refer to mental health awareness campaigns. World Mental Health Day is a campaign intended to educate youth and people around the world about the importance and attainment of greater levels of mental health. (Read more about World Mental Health Awareness Day here.) This day falls in October, and is intended to raise awareness worldwide.
They may also be referring to children's mental health awareness. National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day is a separate campaign designed to raise awareness of the prevalence of mental health problems experienced by children, and to promote an increased focus on building resilience, developing coping skills, and better deal with trauma. (Read more about National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day here.) This day falls in early May, and is intended to strengthen community resources and raise awareness as well.
