Taking time off from work has immense benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
Despite work stress, many Americans aren’t taking time off. More than 30% of Americans say that work has a negative impact on their mental health, causing symptoms like anxiety, stress, worrisome thoughts, loss of sleep, or depression.
A study released by the American Psychological Association concluded that time off helps to reduce stress by removing people from the activities and environments that they associate with stress and anxiety.
Extended time off can increase life satisfaction, improve mental well-being, reduce heart disease risks, and reduce anxiety and depression. It can yield tremendous dividends for both the company and employees.
In a Harvard Business Review article, the amount of time off needed for mental health reasons can be days, weeks, or even months. The Family and Medical Leave Act allows eligible employees to take up to 12 workweeks of leave for their own serious health condition, including mental health conditions.
How much time off do you need?