Sunshine Matters

In recognition of World Health Day, VISIT FLORIDA joined the Florida Department of Health in encouraging Floridians to consider the many health benefits associated with taking vacation time off from work.

“The Florida Department of Health is pleased to partner with VISIT FLORIDA in recognizing World Health Day,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. John Armstrong, “We are encouraging Florida’s families to recognize the health benefits that travel and vacation time can bring to overall well-being.”

VISIT FLORIDA welcomes this opportunity to work with the Florida Department of Health to help Floridians understand the value of taking time off.  Research shows that travel can play an important role in maintaining health, and there’s no better place to travel than right here in the Sunshine State.

In 2013, American workers did not use an average of 3.2 days of earned time off, for a total of 429 million unused vacation days.  Statistics show that taking vacation time leads to an improved personal and social life, and may have a substantial impact on personal well-being and family relationships.  People who utilize their time off tend to have fewer minor health problems and lower levels of stress.  In fact, people who take less than five days off a year are more likely to have trouble sleeping, which can lead to other health issues. 

World Health Day is celebrated every year to mark the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948.  For information about World Health Day, please click here.

The Florida Department of Health protects, promotes and improves the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow them on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook.  For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

The U.S. Travel Association has undertaken a comprehensive, research-driven initiative to change mindsets, shift American culture and motivate American workers to use more of their earned time off.  To learn more, check out their Travel Effect website.  And to help improve your health by planning your next Florida vacation, go to VISITFLORIDA.com.