Why we all need more days off work

When Amy Vale, a marketing executive in New York, takes 'a mental health day' to recharge her batteries, she doesn't fake a sick day - but she also doesn't share the reason for her day off with her bosses.

Many employees use a mental health day to take a short break from the office, but aren't physically sick. "There's a perception that if you take a mental health day, either you're playing hooky and there's nothing really wrong, or you're really struggling," said Vale, 32.

Even though many workplaces now pay lip service to helping employees create a better work-life balance, some workers still find that simply asking for a personal day off is intimidating. Many feel forced to share why they want time off with their managers and nobody wants to declare a personal day meant for mental health. And even when you've got a day off, making arrangements to recharge can be another hurdle.

But workplace experts increasingly promote mental health days for stressed-out employees. Unlike holiday or vacations that are often structured around reconnecting with family and friends, mental health days are typically spent solo. These one-off days away from the office can help you relax by distancing yourself from the stress and fuel new ideas once you're back at your desk.

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