After a stressful day at work, you might be tempted to pour yourself a large glass of wine, run a hot bath, or indulge in your favourite chocolate bar.
But if you really want to console yourself, scientists from Anglia Ruskin University have a different suggestion.
Their new study has revealed that a takeaway is the most effective method to cheer yourself up after a bad day.
In addition, a takeaway was also found to be the best option to celebrate a good day.
‘The popularity of takeaway food may reflect a double benefit,’ explained Dr Suzanna Forwood, lead author of the study.
‘The takeaway combines the indulgence of a desired meal with removing the daily chore of preparing and cooking dinner.
‘For many, that combination may feel particularly appealing after either a successful or a difficult day at work.’
A new study has revealed that a takeaway is the most effective method to cheer yourself up after a bad day (stock image)
In their study, the researchers set out to understand how people choose to reward or consolate themselves after a good or bad day.
‘We know that we’re motivated to self–gift either to reward ourselves for successes or as therapy to console ourselves following setbacks,’ Dr Forwood explained.
‘Understanding these behaviours is important, particularly from a public health perspective, as managing our mental health on a daily basis is a valuable part of living well.
‘Self–gifting can include a whole range of activities, from consuming food and drink, to engaging in sensory experiences such as bathing, reading or listening to music, or taking part in exercise and sport.
‘While all of these can meet our emotional needs, they have varied effects on our health and physical wellbeing.’
The team enlisted 280 participants, who were randomly assiged to imagine either a good, bad, or average day at work.
They were then asked which of five self–gifting options they would be most likely to indulge in.
The five options were: an alcoholic drink, a takeaway, a chocolate bar, a bubble bath, or an online shopping spree.
In their study, the researchers set out to understand how people choose to reward or consolate themselves after a good or bad day – whether it’s a glass of wine or a bubble bath (stock image)
The results revealed that participants imagining a bad day at work were significantly more likely to treat themselves with a takeaway, an alcoholic drink, a bubble bath or chocolate bar, compared to those imagining an average day.
However, a takeaway meal was the only treat that satisfied participants who imagined a good day at work, as well as a bad day at work.
In addition, the researchers found that online shopping is no long seen as a treat, with people just as likely to choose this option after an average day.
‘Although our study only looked at five specific behaviours, in real life everyone will have a personal preference and it’s possible to opt for something that’s good for your physical health as well as your mental health,’ Dr Forwood added.
Before you take this as your excuse to order a takeaway this evening, the researchers highlight that this option isn’t always the best idea.
‘Some options in our study provide clear benefits for self‑care, but others carry health risks,’ Dr Forwood concluded.
‘Consuming takeaways, chocolate bars and alcoholic drinks increases our intake of calories, sugar, salt and alcohol – all of which contribute to health challenges.’
