Mental Health Days in Schools: Do They Actually Work?

Mental health days sound good in theory, right? You’re overwhelmed, burnt out, and just need a day. More and more states are passing policies that allow students to take excused absences for mental health, treating it like any other sick day. But here’s the real question: do they actually help?

Let’s break it down.

What Are “Mental Health Days”?

A mental health day is a day off school for reasons like stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion, not the flu or strep. As of now, states like Oregon, Utah, Illinois, and a growing list of others recognize these days as legitimate absences.

On paper, it’s progress. It acknowledges that mental health matters just as much as physical health. But in practice, it’s more complicated.

The Good: Why They Matter

• Validation: They send the message that students’ emotional well-being matters.

• Accessibility: For students who feel overwhelmed but aren’t in crisis, it gives a way to pause before things get worse.

• Destigmatization: Just having it on record helps normalize mental health struggles.

Let’s be honest. Sometimes, you just need a day.

The Limitations

Here’s where things get tricky.

• One day won’t fix burnout

  • A 24-hour break might help you catch your breath, but it doesn’t fix an overloaded schedule, toxic school culture, or chronic stress.

• Not every school takes it seriously

  • Some students report being questioned, judged, or told to "just push through," which defeats the entire purpose.

• Access is unequal

  • Not all families or communities feel safe disclosing mental health struggles. And if your school doesn’t have counselors or follow-up support, the day off may be a temporary patch, not a solution.

So… Do They Work?

Yes, but only if they’re part of a bigger support system.

Mental health days are a tool, not a cure. For them to actually work, schools need:

• Trained counselors and social workers

• Real conversations about stress and trauma

• Flexible workloads and wellness policies

• Safe environments for students to ask for help without shame

Gen Z’s Take

We’re the most open generation about mental health, and we’re also one of the most stressed. Mental health days show that schools are starting to listen. But it’s on all of us to keep the conversation going.

Take the day if you need it. But also ask:

What’s making me need this day in the first place, and who is helping change that?

Overall Summary

Mental health days are a step forward in how schools treat student well-being, but they are not a complete solution. They are most effective when supported by access to counseling, more flexible workloads, and open conversations about student stress.

Call to Action

Have you ever taken a mental health day? What would actually help you feel supported at school?

Drop your thoughts in the comments and share this with a friend. Your voice matters.