Survey says Americans return tired from vacation





Have you ever returned from a vacation feeling more tired than when you left? If so, you are in good company.


A new Gallup survey reveals that the majority of Americans return from vacation tired. In the survey, 54 percent of vacationers said that they were tired upon their return, including 19 percent who said they returned feeling either "very tired" or "exhausted."


Only 20 percent of vacationers returned home well rested, one-third fewer than those who felt well rested before they left for vacation.


"One would expect that vacation would dramatically reduce the number of people reporting tiredness, but instead there was a moderate increase," said Dr. Roger Cadieux, clinical professor of psychiatry at Penn State University’s College of Medicine.


"Clearly, vacations are fraught with obstacles to sleep and relaxation, and the problems often begin before you leave home."


The survey identified several behaviors that contributed to vacation-related sleep loss.


Nearly half of vacationers said they packed the night before and many lost two or more hours of sleep before their trip. During their vacations, many respondents disrupted their normal sleep habits. The majority stayed up later than usual on at least one night.


Some also had trouble sleeping as a result of unfamiliar surroundings, uncomfortable accommodations or indigestion, chronic sleep problems or other medical conditions.


"Vacation is not going to resolve a chronic sleep condition, such as insomnia," Cadieux said. "If you’re having sleep problems, consult a physician."


Some tips to make your next vacation more sleep-friendly include:


•Start packing several days before your trip. Don’t wait until midnight the evening before.


•Eat and drink moderately. Overindulging in food or alcohol can disturb sleep patterns, particularly late at night.


•Stop worrying. Don’t put work, family, or financial problems on the itinerary. You’ll have time to address those issues upon your return.


•Plan to get a full night’s sleep. You don’t have to sacrifice fun for sleep. You can conquer every monument in Washington, D.C. and still get a full night’s sleep. Don’t approach vacation like a marathon.


For resources on sleep and making vacation more sleep-friendly, visit www.shuteye.com or



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