Does Travel Boost Your Mental Well-Being?

The Link Between Travel and Mental Health

A recent survey has uncovered a fascinating connection between travel and mental well-being. According to the findings, Americans who take trips regularly tend to experience significant improvements in their mental health. The study, conducted by a research firm, highlights how frequent travel can act as a powerful tool for emotional and psychological rejuvenation.

The survey involved 2,000 participants from various age groups, including Gen Z, millennials, Gen X, and baby boomers. It aimed to explore how people’s mental health status influences their attitudes toward travel and vice versa. The results revealed that individuals with better mental health are more likely to view travel as an essential part of their lifestyle.

Travel as a Lifestyle for Better Mental Health

One of the most striking findings was the level of enthusiasm for travel among those with excellent mental health. Nearly 40% of these individuals described themselves as “extremely passionate about travel,” often planning trips multiple times a year. They see travel not just as a hobby but as a way of life that brings joy and fulfillment.

In contrast, only 12% of those with poor mental health and 19% of those with very poor mental health expressed the same level of passion. Many of them viewed travel as stressful or inconvenient, preferring to stay at home. In fact, 32% of those with very poor mental health identified as “not passionate at all about travel,” highlighting a clear disparity in how different mental states affect travel behavior.

Frequency of Travel and Mental Health

The data also showed that individuals with excellent mental health tend to travel more frequently. On average, they take 3.3 trips per year for non-work-related reasons. This is significantly higher than the average of 1.5 trips per year for those with poor mental health. The gap becomes even more pronounced when looking at international travel.

Those with excellent mental health have traveled internationally an average of 5.3 times in their lifetime. Meanwhile, those with fair, poor, or very poor mental health have traveled internationally less than three times on average. This suggests that regular travel may play a role in maintaining a positive outlook and overall well-being.

How Travel Provides a Mental Reset

Experts believe that travel offers a unique opportunity to step away from daily stressors and gain a new perspective. Benjy Sherer, an anxiety and trauma coach, explains that being in a familiar environment can lead people to get caught up in the details of their lives. This can make minor challenges seem larger than they are.

“Travel can provide a much-needed reset and perspective shift regarding our stresses and life challenges,” Sherer said. “Being in a different environment allows us to break free from the patterns and narratives that keep us stuck.”

He added that even a short trip can help individuals realize that many of their concerns are not as significant as they seem. By removing themselves from their usual surroundings, people can gain clarity and a fresh outlook on their problems.

Methodology Behind the Study

The survey was conducted between May 5 and May 8, 2025, using a random double-opt-in method. It included 500 participants from each major generation group. The research was carried out by WHY NOTResearch, a market research company known for its rigorous methodologies and adherence to industry standards.

The team behind the study is affiliated with professional organizations such as the Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR). These affiliations ensure that the findings meet high standards of accuracy and reliability.

Overall, the study underscores the potential benefits of travel for mental health and suggests that taking time to explore new places could be a valuable strategy for improving emotional well-being.