Psychologists advise on effective vacation recovery to prevent burnout

Psychologists warn that traditional annual vacations may be insufficient for proper physiological and mental regeneration, potentially leading to professional burnout. Aleksandra Penza, a psychologist from SWPS University, notes that work-related stress can weaken mental resilience, decision-making abilities, and reliability.

To achieve effective rest, experts suggest the DRAMMA model, which emphasizes psychological detachment from professional tasks, relaxation through low-intensity activities like yoga or walking, and autonomy in how free time is spent. Avoiding over-scheduled itineraries is crucial to prevent vacations from becoming another stressful list of tasks.

Data from the Polish Economic Institute indicates that in 2025, the average worker in Poland spent approximately 38 hours per week working, which is nearly five hours more than the European Union average. This high workload underscores the importance of meaningful rest to counteract the intensity of professional life.