Hey guys, It is 12:15am and I should be sleeping because I go back to work in a few hours. I have been out of the classroom for 4 months and it has been a blessing beyond measure for me. I have been so happy and able to reevaluate a lot of things and people. So going back to work for me with what had occurred is really taking a toll on my mental state. I did decide to go back to work earlier to get a head start on my classroom with NO pay just in-service hours smh. However, On day 3, I got an epiphany. I realized that I will not get a break anymore like I did the last couple of months and the smart thing for me to do is stay home, unwind, meditate, and clear my head before fully going into the classroom. Remind you, the first day of school is not going to be traditional. I'm going to be in new room, new grade, and dealing with Covid procedures that I am fully going to enforce in my room despite what others may say. So I had to really catch myself because I felt I was getting a little overwhelmed with everything.
If you ever feel like you need a day or two for yourself, you need to take it. NO ONE can tell you NO!! Your mental health is very important. You do not owe anyone an explanation either. I was supposed to go in two days prior to being back on payroll and I decided to stay in bed with my girls and watch Netflix. I slept in, drank my water, and minded my business. I didn't consume myself in anything that was going to affect my mental such as looking at certain pictures on Instagram, reading certain posts from people on Facebook, and I did not watch or read any news.
I used to feel guilty when I took a day off from work, or asked my husband to take our girls out for the day so that I can have a break. But, Not anymore I learned that if I am not okay then everyone around me will feel my energy, and I am working on surrounding myself with positive energy at all times.
Do any of you take Mental Health Days? If so, How does it make you feel afterwards?
Later Love Bugs,
Elizabeth Jacas
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