Why Do We Get Sick When We Finally Take Time Off?

Have you ever noticed that as soon as you take a break from work or school, you start feeling under the weather? This phenomenon, known as leisure sickness, is a real thing that many people experience.

Leisure sickness is a term coined by Dutch researchers in a 2002 study. It refers to the tendency for people to be rarely ill during the workweek but often fall sick on weekends or holidays. Symptoms can include headaches, tiredness, colds, flu, muscle pain, and nausea.

While there is limited research on leisure sickness, some studies suggest that stress reduction can trigger migraines in some individuals. Additionally, strokes have been found to be more common on weekends, possibly due to lifestyle changes and increased stress levels during leisure time.

What Causes Leisure Sickness?

There are several theories as to why leisure sickness occurs. Traveling during vacations can expose us to new germs, while alcohol consumption and engaging in unfamiliar activities can put stress on our bodies. Additionally, being more attuned to physical symptoms when we are not distracted by work may contribute to the perception of sickness during leisure time.

Stress also plays a significant role in the relationship between our immune system and our health. While acute stress can temporarily boost our immune response, chronic stress can weaken our immune system over time, making us more susceptible to infections when we finally relax.

Preventing Leisure Sickness

To avoid falling ill during your time off, it’s essential to prioritize self-care. Staying active, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a healthy diet can help boost your immune system. Studies have shown that regular exercise and stress management techniques like meditation and mindfulness can reduce the risk of illness.

When traveling, taking precautions such as getting flu and COVID boosters, wearing masks in crowded places, and practicing good hygiene can help prevent respiratory infections. By taking care of your physical and mental well-being, you can enjoy your leisure time without the worry of getting sick.

This article is contributed by Thea van de Mortel, Professor Emerita of Nursing at Griffith University.