New research from YouGov for international healthcare company Bupa, shows 42% of employees in the UK are not planning a getaway of a week or more this year.
The research revealed 34% of holidaymakers felt better able to cope with stressful situations after taking a break. With more than half (52%) saying they have been more stressed over the last 12 months than in the previous year, choosing not to go on holiday is a worrying trend.
The research also revealed that 47% of people see a noticeable improvement in their mental wellbeing after taking a break and a quarter say they feel motivated to eat more healthily. In addition, those taking a holiday this year are also more likely to report themselves as generally 'very healthy' or 'fairly healthy' (82%), than those who are staying at home (72%).
It seems that money worries and anxieties about work are holding people back from booking a break. Of those not taking a holiday this year, more than half (56%) say it's because they can't afford it. What's more, almost one in seven people who will not take a whole week off work in 2011, worry their job could be at risk if they ask for time off in the current financial climate.
Even people who are taking a substantial holiday are not feeling good about it, with nearly one in five (18%) feeling guilty about spending their pennies on time away this year. When they do go away, those who are taking a substanial holiday are unlikely to relax fully as 32% stay connected by checking their personal emails and social networks while on holiday and 16% say they will not switch off while on holiday and will continue to think about work.
Bupa's clinical director of occupational health, Jenny Leeser, said: "While people may be aware that taking time out from their day-to-day responsibilities is important in maintaining physical and mental health unfortunately, money and work worries mean many people are not prioritising the need to relax. If financial restraints mean that a week long holiday is unlikely this year, it is still important that employees feel encouraged to take time off from work to rest, even if they stay at home. When taking a break, employees should be encouraged to switch off from the workplace to ensure that they return refreshed and better equipped to deal with everyday pressures."
