I Want to Scream: Why We Need to Take Mental Health Days

So I'm not really injured or sick, but mentally I am. I called into one of my schools, making this claim. It's early November. I'm dealing with too many papers from too many students. My troublemaking student in my ESL class is nearing a suspension. I'm stressed out. Money is tight. The house is messy. My SUV needs a fuel pump (recall). And my pepper trees need pruning once again. Above all else, I'm getting little work done on my newest novel. Since I live to write, and not teach, this is really bothering me.

I have 48 hours of sick leave, and I've just used up 5 of it today.

I can finish critiquing persuasive essays, tend to a few chores. Most importantly, I can work on the new novel, which is struggling right now, as my first drafts do.

If I can't best serve myself right now, then how can I deal with others? It's like a mental staycation, these days. I will return to work dedicated and energetic once again.

Hence, the day off. I only do this once a year, if that. I've got nothing left for students today, but I will get it back,