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Stress and anxiety at home or work can push one into Depression or the breaking point, and the pandemic has only exacerbated mental health challenges. Here are five signs it’s time for you to take a mental health break.
Mental stress can lead to physical symptoms, according to WebMD. Among these are fatigue, exhaustion, physical illness (cults and infections), dehydration, aches (headaches, stomach problems), pains (chest pain, headaches), trouble sleeping, dizziness, high blood pressure, muscle tension, digestive issues, rapid heartbeat, lack of sexual desire and ability.
Too much stress can lead to emotional and mental symptoms, Healthline reports. The most common are depression, anxiety, irritability, problems with memory and concentration, compulsive behavior, mood swings, and low sex drive.
If you find that you are distracted by your thoughts and can’t focus on things, it could be a clear sign your mental health is suffering. Your mind is elsewhere because you want to be elsewhere. Your brain is telling you – you need a break. A lack of focus can be dangerous, leading to accidents at work, on the road, at home, and elsewhere.
When mental health is suffering, many people try to limit their load by spending less or no time caring for themselves. They make it little sleep. They may eat less or overindulge in comfort foods. They may cease exercising. They may skip routine doctor and dental visits. Personal hygiene, as well as housekeeping, may decline. Declining mental health can lead to apathy, and all of the aforementioned are signs.
When things aren’t right with you, it affects how you interact with others. If you find yourself being irritated or overburdened by other people, or simply can’t be attentive or connect with others right now – separate yourself for a while. On the opposite end of the spectrum, mental exhaustion or burnout can bring loneliness.
In most cases, a break means getting away from everything that could aggravate or amplify your feelings of anxiety. It could mean:
· A ‘mental health day’ or leave of absence from work.
· Avoiding friends and family, or…
· If lonely, leading the company of those who bring comfort.
· Disconnecting from the Internet, social media, and TV news.
· Not allowing yourself to focus on problems or negative emotions, shifting your thoughts elsewhere.
· Getting needed sleep.
· Taking a trip or vacation that will bring pleasure.
· Getting counseling or treatment from a mental health professional.
The first thing to do is to stop pushing yourself. Your mind and body are likely “speaking to you,” giving you an internal knowing of what it is you need. (No, it’s not alcohol, intoxicants, or comfort food). If your body needs rest, then stop, relax and sleep. If you need to get away to clear your head, separate yourself from whatever you feel is contributing to your anxiety and connect yourself with whatever it is you think will bring comfort and ease.
