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I need a vacation I need a vacation. How many times during the course of the year do we say that to ourselves, our family and our colleagues Summer is the traditional time for vacations. However, it does not matter if you are planning a summer trip to the beach, a winter ski trip to the mountains or just planning to stay at home and putter in the garden. The important aspect is to relax. "Unfortunately, too many businessmen and women are still mentally working on their vacations," Arthur Rousseau, M.D., chair, Public Information Committee, Oklahoma Psychiatric Physicians Association said. Physically, they may be lying on the beach getting a sunburn, but their minds are still trying to negotiate a contract at the office. "A vacation is an investment in you," he advised. It is a time to redirect your energy toward something which is appealing or pleasurable to you. For those who feel compelled to do something worthwhile, the vacation could be a time to experience something that day-to-day life does not offer. Part of the excitement of traveling is seeing new places. A hiking trip might be a way to study nature or a city vacation can include concerts, plays, museums and art galleries. Under certain circumstances, it may be all right for husbands and wives to take separate vacations. He may enjoy spending a week on a boat fishing and she cannot tolerate the water or she may adore the theater and he cannot sit through the first act. Take time on your vacation for recreation and re-creation. Having fun will give you a sense of being reborn. You can go back to work with a new outlook. Just remember to do some advance planning in case things go awry. A week in a rain-soaked tent can dampen the spirits of the most intrepid camper. Take some games, crafts or a good book to while away the stormy hours. Next time you say, "I need a vacation," plan one which is a change in the routine, a change of environment. "Your mind and your body will thank you for it," Dr. Rousseau said. For a brochure on Stress Without Distress or for referral for psychiatric care, contact the: Oklahoma Psychiatric Physicians
Association The Oklahoma Psychiatric Physicians Association, is a district branch of the American Psychiatric Association. ###### |
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oklapsychiatry@yahoo.com with questions or comments about this web site.
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