Liikalepoisuus

Liikalepoisuus is a term used in Finnish discourse to describe a pattern characterized by excessive desire for rest and leisure to the point of functional impairment. It is not an officially recognized psychiatric disorder.

The term combines liika (excess) and lepo (rest) with the suffix -isuus. It has appeared in scholarly articles and popular media since the 2010s to discuss how digital culture and leisure economies may shape everyday behavior.

Common signs include a persistent preference for passive activities (streaming video, social media, video games) over work, study, or physical activity; irregular sleep patterns; social withdrawal; reduced motivation; and difficulties at school or work. It may co-occur with depression or burnout, though this overlap is not required for the concept.

Causes and risk factors involve interactions between individual temperament and environment: algorithm-driven entertainment, flexible work arrangements, economic insecurity, and urban living. Young people with ready access to devices and leisure content may be most affected.

Diagnosis and management: Liikalepoisuus is not a clinical diagnosis. Evaluation by a mental health professional is recommended to rule out mood or sleep disorders. Management may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavioral activation, structured routines, time-management training, and digital well-being practices.

History and reception: In Finland, the term has appeared in sociological essays and media debates about modern life. Some scholars caution against pathologizing ordinary leisure, while others view it as a symptom of broader societal change.