Can You Take a Leave of Absence for Mental Health?

If a mental health condition makes it difficult to work or requires treatment, time away may be available through sick leave, paid time off, a workplace leave policy, or a legally protected leave program. You do not have to wait until a crisis to ask about your options; you can start by speaking with a health care professional and reviewing your employer’s leave procedures.

Under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), eligible employees may take up to 12 workweeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for a qualifying serious health condition. Eligibility and coverage rules apply, and some states offer additional protections or paid leave programs.

Start by asking your human resources team or supervisor about the process, the notice required, and whether you can use accrued paid leave during your absence. If you are requesting FMLA leave, your employer may require a health care provider’s certification, so ask what documentation and deadlines apply.

You can describe your need for leave without sharing every personal detail with your manager, although the documentation process may require relevant medical information. If taking a continuous block of time off is not the best fit, ask whether intermittent leave or a reduced schedule is available for appointments or recovery.

Before you return, think about which parts of your workday may need adjustment, such as your schedule, breaks, or the way you receive instructions. Depending on your situation, you may be able to request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act, even if you do not take extended leave.

We also encourage you to make room for restorative routines that feel manageable alongside your care plan. Our Move Where Your Mind Can Breathe eBook is an outdoor movement guide, and our article on gentle outdoor movement for mental well-being offers a place to explore the topic further.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating consider support when you return.