“Resting and taking a break from work are not the same as recovering.” Stress expert Elke Van Hoof on the DRAMMA model and active stress recovery.
Why don’t you feel recovered, even though you’re doing everything you’re supposed to? What exactly is the difference between resting and recovering? Stress expert Elke Van Hoof explains why stopping work doesn’t automatically mean you’re recovering. Many people think that recovery happens automatically as soon as the workday ends, but research on work-related stress shows otherwise. Recovery isn’t just a matter of taking a break; it requires an active mental process.
Using the scientifically grounded DRAMMA model, Elke demonstrates what people need to regain their energy, focus, and enthusiasm. The model describes six restorative experiences: Detachment (mentally letting go), Relaxation, Autonomy (freedom of choice), Mastery (experiencing competence), Meaning, and Affiliation (connection).
Of those six, detachment appears to be the most crucial factor in recovery. Those who cannot detach continue to trigger stress responses, relax less deeply, and sleep less well. “A little bit of DRAMMA a day keeps the doctor away.”
