What Is Stress Leave For Work Or a Mental Health Day In Australia?

Overview

Work-related stress and burnout are becoming more prevalent in Australian workplaces. Extended hours, demanding workloads, and constant pressure can adversely affect both mental and physical health. Consequently, numerous employees encounter phrases such as “stress leave” or “mental health day” and use them as avenues to safeguard their well-being.

Nevertheless, there is often a lack of clarity regarding the actual definitions of these terms under Australian legislation. Gaining a clear understanding of how stress leave functions can empower employees to take time off confidently and appropriately when necessary.

What is stress leave in Australia?

In Australia, stress leave does not exist as a distinct legal category of leave. It generally falls under the umbrella of personal or sick leave and is addressed in the same manner as leave due to physical illness.

Key points include:

• Stress leave pertains to both mental and physical health issues.
• A medical certificate may be required if requested by the employer.
• It is available to full-time and part-time employees who have accrued paid personal leave, according to Amira, a mental health expert.

What is a mental health day?

A mental health day entails taking a break from work to safeguard or replenish mental well-being. Similar to stress leave, it is typically taken as personal or sick leave.

Common reasons for taking a mental health day include:

• Feeling overwhelmed or exhausted.
• Experiencing anxiety or emotional fatigue.
• Needing time to reset, rest, and recuperate.

Stress leave vs mental health day: what’s the difference?

Who is eligible for stress leave in Australia?

Most employees are eligible for stress leave, contingent upon their employment type. This encompasses:

• Full-time workers.
• Part-time workers.

Casual employees may access unpaid leave but do not accrue paid personal leave. Eligibility is determined by the entitlements under the Fair Work Act and the accrual of paid personal leave.

Reasons of stress leave

Australians utilise stress leave for various work-related issues, including:

• Overloaded work or impractical deadlines.
• Burnout and emotional fatigue.
• Anxiety linked to work demands.
• Poor work-life balance.
• Workplace conflicts or harassment.
• Mental health issues impacting job performance.

How to take stress leave?

Taking stress leave or a mental health day typically involves several straightforward steps:

• Recognise when taking time off is necessary.
• Consult an online GP or schedule a telehealth appointment.
• Acquire a medical certificate if required.
• Notify your employer according to company policy.

What a medical certificate for stress leave covers

A medical certificate for stress leave generally outlines the following details:

Can employers refuse stress leave?

Employers have the right to ask for evidence, such as a medical certificate, but they cannot deny valid leave without justification.

Important points include:

• Employers cannot insist on a specific diagnosis.
• Mental health leave is treated in the same manner as physical illness.
• Discrimination based on mental health is unlawful.

When stress leave may not be enough

In certain situations, short-term leave might not completely address the concern. Indicators that additional support may be necessary include:

• Stress recurring soon after a break.
• Deteriorating symptoms.
• Continued decline in sleep, mood, or job performance.
• The necessity for extended leave or ongoing treatment.

When to see a GP

You should consider visiting a GP if:

• Stress interferes with daily activities.
• Burnout or anxiety continues.
• You need to discuss leave, adjustments, or referrals.
• You wish to access a mental health care plan.
• You need a medical certificate.

How Hola Health can help

Hola Health offers accessible support for work-related stress and mental health well-being.

• Online GP consultations available across Australia.
• Support for stress, burnout, and mental health concerns.
• Medical certificates for stress leave or mental health days.
• Mental health care plans when clinically appropriate.
• Referrals to psychologists or specialists.

Conclusion

Stress leave and mental health days are legitimate options for workers in Australia to safeguard their health and prevent burnout. Although these concepts are not distinct legal categories, they fall under personal or sick leave and treat mental and physical health equally.

Understanding your rights, recognising early warning signs, and seeking medical support when needed can make a meaningful difference. Taking time off should be viewed not as a weakness, but as a necessary step toward long-term well-being and a sustainable work-life balance.

FAQs

Is stress leave legally acknowledged in Australia?

Stress leave is categorised under personal or sick leave rather than a distinct legal category.

Can I take a mental health day and classify it as sick leave?

Yes, mental health days are generally considered personal or sick leave.

Is a medical certificate required for a single day off?

This depends on workplace policy, but employers may request one.

Can my employer inquire about the reason for my stress leave?

Employers may ask for a medical certificate but cannot request your specific diagnosis.

Is it possible to obtain stress leave through telehealth?

Yes, GPs can issue stress leave certificates via telehealth when clinically appropriate.