A recent meta-analysis has shed light on the profound effects of vacation time on mental health, indicating that physical activity during vacations is strongly linked to enhanced well-being. The study, which analyzed data from 32 studies across nine countries, explored vacations averaging around 12 days in length. It measured individuals' well-being at four distinct points during these vacation periods, revealing significant insights into how vacation activities influence mental health.
The analysis, published in January, found that the positive mental health impacts of vacations could extend for an average of about six weeks. While previous studies suggested that the benefits of vacation fade rapidly, this new research indicates a longer-lasting effect, especially for those engaging in restorative activities. Psychological detachment from work emerges as a critical factor in maintaining well-being both during and after vacation, with unplugging from work-related responsibilities being essential for maximizing these benefits.
“Enhanced benefits to well-being occur when you truly unplug,” – Kristel Bauer
The study highlighted that well-being indicators could persist for several weeks post-vacation. This finding has meaningful implications for workplace attitudes toward time off, suggesting that encouraging employees to disconnect during their vacations could foster long-term mental health benefits. However, further primary research is needed to determine precisely how long the average vacation "afterglow" lasts.
"These included how well-being changed from before to during vacation (‘vacation effect’), how it changed from during vacation to right after you return to work (‘return effect’), from before the vacation to right after (‘after effect’), and from the first measurement after vacation to the last measurement in a study (‘fade-out effect’),” – Ryan Grant, MS
The study's authors advocate for participating in restorative activities during vacations to optimize well-being benefits. Physical activities such as hiking, swimming, or simply exploring new environments were found to have a more substantial association with enhanced mental health than other vacation activities. Preparing in advance for time off can set individuals up for success in reaping these benefits.
“Try to set yourself up for success by preparing in advance of your time off,” – Kristel Bauer
Moreover, emotional well-being during vacations is influenced by the company one keeps. According to Kandi Wiens, EdD, people experiencing emotionally exhausting jobs may benefit from surrounding themselves with individuals who provide positive emotional energy.
“If your job is emotionally exhausting, you may be experiencing the effects of emotional contagion—the phenomenon where people unconsciously tend to ‘catch’ the emotions of those around them," – Kandi Wiens, EdD
“The best way to recover from this is to surround yourself with people who provide you with positive emotional energy—those who make you laugh, smile, and see the good in others.” – Kandi Wiens, EdD
The study underscores that unplugging and engaging in physical activities are vital components of a successful vacation. These practices not only enhance the immediate experience but also contribute to a sustained sense of well-being upon returning to everyday life.
“Plan some fun adventures that get your body moving!” – Kristel Bauer
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