Psychological Detachment
A First Steps NZ Resource by Umbrella
How to get the most out of your downtime.
Most of us would agree that time away from work is important to our wellbeing, and to restore our ability to perform well when we return. But in our hectic lives, it can be hard to switch off and properly recover. How often have you got to the end of your weekend only to feel as though you need another one?
Psychologist Sabine Sonnentag has researched a particular skill called “psychological detachment”, which helps to maximise the benefit of our time outside work. In her research, psychological detachment was a better predictor of positive mood and less fatigue than the amount of time people spent in non-work-related activities. These findings indicate that being able to mentally switch off from work is more important for our ability to recover than the activity we do or how long we do it for. Psychological detachment is therefore defined as the ability to mentally disconnect from work and not think about job-related issues when you are away from your job.
Browse More Popular Resources
View and download our most popular First Steps NZ tools and resources.
What is Dyslexia and How Do I Know if I’m Dyslexic?
We understand very well how dyslexia can create daily frustrations both at work and in life. However, with the right awareness and strategies, we can navigate these challenges effectively and learn how to tap into our unique strengths.
Do You Have Meltdowns or Shutdowns? Understanding Emotional Shutdowns and Meltdowns in Adulthood
Feeling overwhelmed by work, social demands, or too much sensory input can make you feel like you might shut down or lose control. This experience is common among neurodivergent people, especially in high-pressure situations, but can also be a challenge for those struggling with their mental health.
Know Your Sensory Profile
Most of us occasionally feel overwhelmed by loud noises, strong smells, or itchy fabrics, especially when we’re tired, stressed, or uncomfortable. In these moments, our senses can become flooded with too much information, making it difficult to fully process what we’re experiencing.
The Bacteria and the Brain: A Journey Through Time, Life, and Connection
The story of our relationship with bacteria begins the moment we’re born. A baby in the womb is sterile, free of microbes. But during a vaginal birth, the baby is “gifted” lactobacillus bacteria from its mother, a crucial first step in forming a healthy microbiome.
The Heat Within: Understanding Anger in the Workplace
Anger in the workplace can look like a quiet simmer, with an employee retreating behind curt replies and crossed arms, or an outright explosion of raised voices and slamming doors. You’ve probably witnessed this—or maybe even felt it yourself.
The Loneliness Epidemic: Navigating Connection in a Digital Age
In an age of unprecedented connectivity, the “loneliness epidemic” stands as one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Despite the advances in technology and communication, which have brought the world closer in some ways, loneliness has become a global phenomenon. It profoundly influences mental health, physical well-being, and social cohesion.