Take a Vacation to Boost Your Mental Health

Posted December 02, 2019 by Renee Fierro, LPCCs, Director, Outpatient Behavioral Health Services

Americans are often overstressed and overworked, and it’s no wonder – not all Americans have the luxury of paid time off, and even those who do generally don’t take all of it. According to research, more than one in 10 Americans say they plan to take a quarter or less of their vacation days in 2019.

There are many studies that suggest taking time off is beneficial to your mental, physical and overall health and that people who take vacations have lower stress, less risk of heart disease, a better outlook on life and more motivation to achieve goals. Here are some benefits from taking time off of work:

1. It’s a stress reliever: Taking a break from the daily hustle helps your mind relax, recharge and rejuvenate. In addition, traveling promotes happiness and helps take the mind off of stressful situations. A 2013 study shares that more than 80% of surveyed Americans noticed a significant drop in stress levels just after a few days of traveling.
2. It can have a positive effect your physical health: Stress can be a major contributor to heart disease and high blood pressure. So, taking time off work can help to reduce the risk of developing stress related illnesses.
3. Improve your mental health: Chronic stress can increase the risk of mental health issues like depression, anxiety, sleep problems and memory and concentration impairment. Taking time away can help relieve stress and allow your mind to heal.
4. Feel happier and more satisfied: Taking a vacation and traveling gives you the opportunity to experience new things and broaden your perspective which boosts your mood and self-confidence.
5. Feel refreshed and rejuvenated: Returning from vacation, your brain will be fresh with new ideas and experiences and you will be more focused and productive. People who take regular time off to relax are less likely to experience burnout and are more creative and productive than their overworked and under-rested counterparts.

Taking time away from the stresses of work is good for you both physically and mentally. It can give you the break you need to come back to your daily life refreshed and ready to take on whatever comes your way.

The fact is, your mental health is just as important as your physical health and we at Summa Health Behavioral Health Institute are here to help you stay healthy in a holistic and complete way. Talk to your primary care physician and check in with them on a regular basis to continue finding new ways to keep your body and mind healthy each and every day.