To: U.S. Employers, Business Leaders, and Policymakers
We, the undersigned, respectfully ask for the following actions:

1. National recognition of International Self‑Care Day, establishing it as an annual public observance centered on mental health, rest, and family wellness.
2. Encouragement for U.S. employers to grant paid time off (PTO) on this day, allowing employees to recharge, reconnect with loved ones, and care for their emotional well‑being.
3. Affirmation that America values human wellness and preventative care—not just productivity.

 
The Problem

Chronic workplace stress significantly increases healthcare expenses. High-stress individuals can incur up to 200 % more medical costs compared to their less-stressed peers—and combining stress with depression adds around $1,700 to annual healthcare use per person.

Stress and mental health crises are driving more emergency room visits. From 2006–2014, ED visits for depression, anxiety, stress reactions, and substance use disorders increased by over 44 %.

Family wellness suffers when caregivers are overwhelmed. Caregiver burnout correlates with a 23 % increase in emergency visits among dependents. Stressed households elevate risks of emotional neglect and developmental challenges in children.
 
Our Proposal

1. Designate one yearly National Self‑Care Day—a dedicated day for mental rest and preventive wellness.
2. Urge employers to grant PTO on that day, enabling individuals and families time for self‑care, mental health check-ins, or recovery.
3. Demonstrate that caring for people’s well-being is a national priority, not an afterthought.

Why This Matters

1. Reduces burnout and costly health emergencies. A restorative day off supports mental resilience and prevents crisis-driven healthcare costs.
2. Empowers stronger families and communities. Rested caregivers can nurture healthier relationships and support child development.
3. Signals a shift in national values. By prioritizing preventive wellness, we show that life balance and mental health matter as much as productivity metrics.

Please Sign This Petition If You Believe:

1. Employers should respect and support mental and family health equally to performance.
2. Paid self‑care time helps prevent costly health crises and strengthens emotional wellness and families.
3. We can—and must—make self‑care a national expectation.
    
   How You Can Help
   Sign and show your support for real change in workplace well-being.
   Share using hashtags like #InternationalSelfCareDay, #SelfCarePTO, #HealthyFamilies #ZenLATELY 

Encourage your employer, community, or business leaders to pledge PTO for self‑care on July 24th annually.

Bottom Line: "People need to be restored after doing this work" - Shanda