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When should I take a complete break to recover? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: When should I take a complete break to recover?
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  SPEAKER_00: A complete break to recover can be appropriate when your usual coping strategies such as rest weekends, exercise boundaries or reducing your workload are no longer enough to bring your energy and emotional capacity back.
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  SPEAKER_00: This may be time to consider taking a more substantial period away from work or responsibilities.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you notice persistent exhaustion that doesn't improve after a night's sleep or weekend, feeling emotionally overwhelmed, irritable, tearful, numb.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you are dreading work most days or thinking about when you're supposed to be resting, your concentration, memory, or decision making are noticeably affected.
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  SPEAKER_00: You are becoming less able to empathize or feel present with others.
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  SPEAKER_00: You are experiencing physical signs of prolonged stress such as headaches, muscle tension, poor sleep.
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  SPEAKER_00: You keep saying I just need to get through this week.
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  SPEAKER_00: But the same feelings continue.
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  SPEAKER_00: Think about the level of a break you need.
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  SPEAKER_00: A day or two can be useful when you're tired but generally functioning and need to rest.
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  SPEAKER_00: A proper holiday or several days away, which is more appropriate when you've been running on empty for weeks and need recovery rather than simply catching up on sleep.
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  SPEAKER_00: A longer period away from work is worth discussing with your GP or occupational health if exhaustion, stress or emotional difficulties are significantly affecting your ability to function or work safely.
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  SPEAKER_00: The important point is that you don't have to wait until you completely break down before taking a break.
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  SPEAKER_00: A break is preventative as well as restorative.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking of harming yourself or feel unsafe, please call your local emergency number or crisis line.