Rest intolerance, emotional distress, insomnia, and adaptive coping strategies: a validation and serial mediation analysis study

Abstract

Rest intolerance, characterized by negative emotions like shame and guilt during periods of rest, has become an increasingly prevalent health concern. This inability to relax or disengage from activity can exacerbate psychopathology by contributing to stress and anxiety, underscoring the need for further investigation. This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Rest Intolerance Scale (RIS) and to investigate the mediating role of self-compassion and resilient mindset in the relationship between rest intolerance, emotional distress, and sleep complaints among Turkish young adults. A total of 475 young adults participated, with 349 females (73.5%) and 126 males (25.5%) aged 18 to 28 years. The results confirmed the RIS’s reliability and validity in identifying individuals’ discomfort or symptoms during rest. Rest intolerance was found to be a significant predictor of insomnia complaints and emotional distress. Additionally, rest intolerance negatively affected self-compassion and resilient mindset, while self-compassion mediated the relationship between rest intolerance and both insomnia complaints and emotional distress. These findings highlight the importance of addressing rest intolerance as a key factor in promoting mental health and well-being. Self-compassion emerged as a crucial element in reducing the negative effects of rest intolerance, suggesting its potential as an intervention target.