Just as you’d take a sick day from work if you’re feeling physically unwell, taking a mental health day might be a good idea if you’re feeling overwhelmed or burned out. A mental health day can help you recharge so you’re more able to face your challenges when you return to work. But it can be tricky to ask for if you don’t have an understanding employer. In an ideal world, you’d be able to let your boss know how you’re feeling without fear of the consequences. With growing awareness of mental health problems, more employers are now happy to approve a mental health day compared to previous years. If you don’t think a request for a mental health day will go over well, say you’re feeling under the weather and will be taking a sick day. But it’s best to give your colleagues some advance notice if possible so they can cover your workload if necessary.