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One of the symptoms of approaching nervous breakdown is…

“One of the symptoms of approaching nervous breakdown is the belief that one's work is terribly important, and that to take a holiday would bring all kinds of disaster. If I were a medical man, I should prescribe a holiday to any patient who considered his or her work important.” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“One of the symptoms of approaching nervous breakdown is the belief that one's work is terribly important, and that to take a holiday would bring all kinds of disaster. If I were a medical man, I should prescribe a holiday to any patient who considered his or her work important.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Overvaluing work leads to burnout; leisure is a remedy for mental health.

In simple terms: Work obsession harms health.

Key Takeaway

Schedule regular breaks and holidays.

Themes

work‑life balance mental health productivity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • career
  • academic life
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

burnout leisure theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What barriers prevent you from taking breaks?
  • How does society value constant productivity?
A Different Perspective

Some may view holidays as laziness, affecting reputation.

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