4 Ways Going on Vacation Helps Your Mental Health

The average American worker takes only 11 vacation days even though most employers give them 14 or more days yearly. Some employees fear that if they are not at work, their employers will not consider them for promotions if they take their vacation days. Others say taking vacations is too expensive, but there are many places to go on a day trip or plan stay-at-home vacations. Not using your vacation days can ruin your mental health.

Alter Brain Structure

Refusing to take time to unwind and destress changes your brain’s structure, leaving you more prone to anxiety and depression. In simplified terms, the white matter in your brain grows when you constantly put yourself under stress. Therefore, you make poorer decisions and are less creative at solving problems.

Feeling Less Well-being

According to the Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index, people who take vacation days consistently score higher in mental well-being. The second piece of great news is that an increased feeling of well-being lasts for up to five weeks after returning to work.

Increased Motivation

People who take their vacation days regularly are more motivated and can concentrate when they return. Part of the reason is that taking a vacation increases a person’s ability to focus on accomplishing more when they return.

Decreases Burnout

People who are burned out often feel depressed and find it difficult to concentrate. Furthermore, people who are burned out often think that regardless of what they do, it is never enough. Taking a break from your routine helps to stop burnout, and going on vacation lets you put everything back into perspective.

While going on vacation can help improve your mental well-being, it is not enough for some. In that case, contact us today set up an intake. We can help you determine what is happening and ways to improve your mental health.