Finally, vacation. Finally, the weekend. But instead of feeling refreshed, you start to experience headaches, a cold, or severe fatigue. Many people find that their symptoms appear just when the tension eases. This phenomenon is known as "leisure sickness." Why symptoms often don't appear until the recovery phase, and what you can do about it.
What is “Leisure Sickness”?
“Leisure sickness” refers to the onset of symptoms during leisure time or at the start of vacation. Typical symptoms are
- Headaches or Weekend Migraines
- Cold Symptoms
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Tiredness and exhaustion
- Nausea
- Concentration difficulties
People with high levels of stress at work or in their personal lives are particularly likely to be affected. People who set high standards for themselves, have perfectionist tendencies, or are particularly willing to sacrifice themselves also seem to be more susceptible.
Why do people get sick when they’re on vacation, of all times?
The exact causes of “leisure sickness” have not yet been fully elucidated. Experts believe that several factors are at play.
During stressful periods, the body releases increased amounts of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These help you stay productive and can temporarily suppress inflammatory responses. If hormone levels drop rapidly after a period of intense stress, symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems, or cold symptoms may become clearly apparent for the first time.
On top of that, we’re often so busy in our daily lives that we barely notice our bodies’ warning signs. It is only when calm returns that fatigue, exhaustion, or physical discomfort are consciously noticed. As a result, many people don’t realize until the weekend or during vacation just how stressful the past few weeks actually were.
Additional factors can make the situation worse: going to bed later, drinking more alcohol, eating at unusual times, or getting little sleep after a party. What goes largely unnoticed during the week can suddenly trigger discomfort or exacerbate existing symptoms during the recovery phase.
Why do some people get sick on vacation?
The “vacation sickness” is particularly pronounced at the start of the vacation. Often, numerous factors change simultaneously within a matter of hours:
- The usual daily routine is disrupted
- Bedtimes and wake-up times are changing
- Diet and activity levels change
- Alcohol is consumed more frequently
- Long trips and time zone changes put additional strain on the body
If the vacation begins right after a period of intense work or a long-haul flight, the body has to adapt to new conditions very quickly. These sudden changes can make recovery more difficult and increase the risk of discomfort.
What helps combat “leisure sickness”?
There is no guarantee. However, there are some steps we can take to ensure that weekends and vacations are truly restorative.
Healthy routines should be maintained as much as possible, even during stressful times:
- get enough sleep
- exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced diet
- drink enough
- Plan for intentional breaks
Especially during periods of high stress, these habits aren’t an extra burden, but rather an important resource for physical and mental health.
It is also helpful to have transitions between work and leisure that are as smooth as possible. If you have the option, you shouldn’t board a long-haul flight immediately after your last day of work. Even just one or two transition days can help gradually reduce stress levels. A relaxed trip home also makes it easier for the body to adjust.
Relaxation doesn’t just begin during vacation
People who are under constant stress should not limit their rest exclusively to weekends or vacations. Regular breaks, adequate sleep, and healthy routines support the immune system and help the body cope better with stress.
With smooth transitions and a deliberate balance between tension and relaxation, the chances increase that your free time will actually be used for rest—rather than an unwanted, forced break in bed. With that in mind: Have a great rest!
