Women who vacation regularly tend to sleep better, feel more satisfied with their family life, and consequently experience less stress and depression. The issue is that most women barely manage to take even one vacation a year. A survey among working women in the United States found the following rates of vacation-taking:
- 2 times a year (23.4%)
- 1 time a year (34%)
- 1 time every 2-5 years (23.2%)
- 1 time every 6 years (19.4%)
“It’s astonishing to see nearly 1 in 5 women taking a vacation only once every 6 years,” stated Cathy McCarty, the lead researcher at Marshfield Hospital.
The rates of depression and stress are significantly higher in women who vacation once every two years compared to those who are willing to take time off work to relax at least twice a year.
“It’s not surprising at all. Taking a vacation helps us escape daily stressors,” McCarty said. “It allows us to get away from the office, from home, and helps alleviate all stress.”
According to experts, this study demonstrates that vacations are highly beneficial for both physical and mental health, enabling individuals to perform better at work. Employers should support their employees in taking time off to foster a happier and more refreshed workforce.
M.T. (according to Livescience)