05/15/2026
Mental health matters, and so does knowing how to respond when an employee asks for time off to address it. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or another condition, employers often wonder: Am I required to approve time off? What laws apply?
Here’s the short answer: it depends.
Requests for mental health leave may fall under FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act), ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), or company policy, depending on a number of factors.
Every situation is different, and how you respond matters. If you're unsure about how to navigate mental health leave requests, Executive Legal can help you stay compliant, compassionate, and protected.