Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
It's prime vacation season, and this week on Healthwatch, we'll talk about how you can keep yourself and your family safe and healthy when you travel so you can really enjoy your vacation. A vacation may seem like a luxury, but doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say it's essential for good mental health.
Dr. Ann Maddrey, a UT Southwestern psychologist, says a vacation helps empty your mind from its usual routine so you're better prepared to make way for new things. A break from the usual routine helps you recharge so you'll have more mental energy and creativity when you return to work.
You don't have to travel to take a vacation. Just taking some time off at home to relax and do things you enjoy that are outside your normal routine can help you re-energize.
Next: If you do travel, how you can avoid jet lag.
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June 2005
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