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In recognition of the Christmas season, Dr. Kathryn Wistar, M.D. at Sheepscot Valley Health Center, discusses
Hectic Holidays
 For most of us, Christmas shopping and planning begin in November and sometimes are put off until Christmas Eve. We all want to find the perfect gift for everyone and make sure that the family get-together will be a success. But along with the fun and excitement of the Christmas season comes the stress of spending a lot of money on gifts, preparing a tasty meal, and of course, the family drama. Although each of us may look forward to this holiday season all year long, we can’t help but feel stressed out with everything that accompanies the decorations and cookies.
Stress plays a crucial role in our health. It is important to keep stress under control because it may lead to health complications. Stress has been found to contribute to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors, such as smoking and overeating. The tips below will aid in dealing with the up-and-coming holiday stress as well as the stress we face daily.
What is Stress?
Stress is our natural reaction to things that bother us in our life. It is a normal part of life and what causes it or how it is handled may differ from person to person. Some of us may feel stress at work or when driving in heavy traffic. Others may feel stress when needing to remember to take medications or to arrange a ride to the grocery store. The following are some signs of stress:
Signs of Stress:
- Dizziness
- Grinding teeth
- Difficulty sleeping
- Racing heart
- Weight loss/gain
- Upset stomach
- Constant worry
- Loss of sense of humor
- Anger
- Crying
- Depression
- Compulsive eating
- Explosive actions
- Increased drug or alcohol use
- Anxiety
How Stress Affects Our Health:
As of yet, stress has not been directly tied to heart disease, but it has been linked to other cardiac risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Consistent stress may also expose the body to higher levels of the stress hormones, cortisol and adrenaline. These have been tied to changes in the way that blood clots and ultimately may increase the risk of a heart attack.
How to Cope with Stress:
Although people handle stress differently, there are a few common things everyone can do to assist in lightening the load. Following the coping tips below may help lower stress levels:
Coping Tips:
- Eat and drink sensibly
- Believe in yourself
- Avoid tobacco products
- Exercise regularly
- Do something relaxing every day
- Reduce obvious daily stressors
- Set realistic goals
- Get plenty of sleep
- Participate in uplifting activities
- Avoid using alcohol and other drugs to treat anxiety
Stress cannot be completely removed from our lives; it is simply a part of life. However, during the stressful holiday season, we can focus on the fun and beauty of Christmas rather than the stress it may cause. Take a drive and view the colorful lights, relax with some hot cocoa, or make a snowman. Whatever the strategy to relax, we should remember most of all, to enjoy ourselves!
Resources:
1. WebMD- Heart Disease: Stress and Heart Disease http://www.webmd.com/content/pages/9/1675_57858
2. Stress Cure- Stress and Cardiovascular Disease: Is there a Relationship? http://www.stresscure.com/health/stresscv.html
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