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3 things to ask yourself before you take a mental health day

Local health experts said one in five people will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year.
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

ST. LOUIS — While we might be talking about mental health more these days, it's important to know what to talk about, even if that conversation is with yourself.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Day, we talked to the experts at Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri, who reminded us that one in five people will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year.

The key, they said, will be to identify the kind of help you need before it becomes a crisis.

So, here's what to ask yourself:

Are you experiencing any constant emotion, strong feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, that don't stop?

Do you have a problem you can't fix? You've looked for solutions and you don't know what to do, or maybe you need a neutral person to work through your problems?

Do you have a hard time with daily activities, I’m talking normal functions like sleeping, focusing at work, or eating?

If you find yourself saying yes to these questions, that's what mental health days are for; a sick day for your mental well-being and to press pause, and maybe figure out what to do next.

If you find yourself having several of those types of days, that's when you'll want to talk to a doctor.

The good news is that most people are able to function normally once they get some help taking better care of their mental health.

For a free online mental health screening, click here or find local mental health resources at 314-773-1399.

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