How to Take a Mental Health Day
Emily L. Foley,Allure magazine
An Interview With Marilyn Puder-York. Puder-York is a psychologist, an executive coach, and the author of The Office Survival Guide (McGraw-Hill).
Even the most dedicated employee needs the occasional spontaneous day off, and the urge tends to strike most in summer. Do it right and you can enjoy yourself without falling out of the boss's good graces.
See more: Top 21 Drugstore Beauty Bargains
Try the truth. Consider just asking for a personal day, even if the request is last-minute. It's always better to be honest. If you decide to feign illness, send a simple email saying you're not feeling well-spare them any extra details. Nothing is lamer than the fake-sore-throat voicemail message. And don't tell anyone the true nature of your day off. Even your closest friend at the office could let it slip.
See more: The 6 Most Flattering Haircuts for Round Faces
Be strategic. Choose a midweek day so you're not giving yourself a long weekend, which is almost always a red flag. And stay a little late the evening before to work ahead on your tasks. Don't be so proactive that it draws attention, but do little things that will minimize the impact of your absence on both yourself and others. The next day, keep your head down and just work. If anyone asks, just say, "I'm much better, thanks" without elaborating.
See more: The 10 Commandments of Mascara
Make it rare. Repeatedly taking days off can create a "boy who cried wolf " effect, and people will stop believing your stories. Your peers will feel put-upon for having to pick up your slack and may eventually question your work ethic-not a great idea in this job market.
See more from Allure:
The Top 14 New Summer Hair Ideas
The 12 Best Eye Creams
Vote for Allure's Beauty Blogger of the Year
2012 Readers' Choice Awards
