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Ah, the holidays are finally here! Holiday parties, family fun, or vacations can be special times. But if you’re feeling more stressed than usual this time of year, don’t worry, experts say you’re not alone. lacks the spirit of
resource Our editors spoke to two local experts about how health and well-being often go hand in hand, and what they can do to make their holiday experience as stress-free as possible. Amy Exum, LHMC, is a Certified Mental Health Counselor and Community Health Manager at Baptist Health, and David Mishkin is an Emergency Medical Specialist at Baptist Health Urgent Care, which has 25 locations in South Florida.
resource: How does a person’s state of mind affect physical health?
Amy Exum: People with certain mental health diagnoses have been found to be at increased risk for medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. We also know that people with chronic illnesses are more vulnerable to stress and may progress to a mental health diagnosis. It causes nervousness and nervousness, headaches, bruxism, gastrointestinal problems, sleep disturbances, or possibly a combination of these.
Dr. Mishkin: Our mental health and physical health are fundamentally connected. People with mental illness are also at increased risk of experiencing various physical health concerns and chronic illnesses. For example, increased anxiety and depression can cause hormonal imbalances and changes in sleep cycles, which can directly affect our heart, digestion, and overall longevity.
resource: Are the number of cases on vacation usually increasing?
Dr. Mishkin: we do. This was often due to family and friends coming together to celebrate, changes in routine, and time to reflect. These emotional stressors also often cause medical symptoms and are more commonly seen in emergency care centers during this time.
Amy Exum: Holidays are usually stressful, but many simply try to “get through” the season, which is understandable. They worry that acknowledging their stress will dampen the holiday spirit, so they wait until the New Year to address the issue. Busy, self-care is on the back burner.
resource: Has the acute care patient been referred to a mental health counselor?
Dr. Mishkin: Mental health screenings are an important part of Baptist Health patient care and are routinely performed in emergency care centers. Urgent Care patients are referred to mental health counselors when necessary.
resource: What are the most common holiday stressors for people?
Amy Exum: For many adults, the whole process of gift-giving, shopping, and spending tends to rank pretty high on the list. This can lead to family members spending less money on gifts, financial disagreements between partners, and the inability to afford that “perfect gift.” ”
Besides, we’re past the midterm elections and still in a period of great political debate. Political debate is often a dangerous “third rail” topic at many family gatherings, Some people simply prefer not to attend than to get into an argument when it should be a time of celebration.
Holiday travel is especially stressful. Drivers face high gas prices, congested highways, long lines for flyers and potential flight delays or cancellations. Compounding the potential for stress is the uncertainty that comes with traveling in the age of COVID, especially during this time of the flu and RSV pandemic.
Another common source of stress is what people are feeling when they lose a loved one. For them, holidays can trigger feelings of sadness and sadness. Especially if it’s your first time celebrating without a loved one.
For children, the stressors may be slightly different. They experience a lack of structure during school holidays, and changes in routines, diet, and after-school activities can lead to behavioral problems. No, but you can experience family stress as your own stress.
resource: How do these stressors tend to affect people’s behavior and relationships?
Amy Exum: The holidays are supposed to be “the happiest time of the year,” but some people may find themselves impatient, impatient, moody, and having strained relationships with family and friends. They may also turn to alcohol or other substances to help them cope. may be seen with an increase.
resource: What advice would you give your patients to keep them happy and healthy while on vacation?
Dr. Mishkin: Vacations can often be a stressful time for people. Some tips for staying happy and healthy during this time are to stick to a regular sleep schedule, participate in regular exercise, and maintain a balanced diet. Talking to a mental health counselor is also an important step in managing these feelings.
Amy Exum: First, let’s admit that it’s perfectly normal for stress levels to rise while on vacation. No. My advice is to manage your expectations, prioritize what is important and know that things may not go as planned. . Practice Gratitude – Researchers have found that people who practice gratitude are happier and it also helps improve relationships. Try that and reconfigure your perspective. It’s easy to become irritable when you’re tired and overwhelmed, so make time for yourself. Spending time with other people is great, but find time to do what you enjoy. Give yourself time to “reset” that we all need from time to time. Finally, don’t forget the basics. Get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in physical activity. Some days may be overwhelming, but sticking to a routine as much as possible can help reduce stress.
resource: What approaches have you personally found to help reduce holiday stress?
Amy Exum: I try to schedule at least a day or two to do nothing. It’s like a “free day,” where you’re allowed to wake up late, wear pajamas all day, cuddle with your pets, and eat breakfast for dinner. I want. We also spend time outdoors away from phones and computer screens. Studies show that spending time in nature actually improves mental health and cognition. Even if you live in an area where it snows or is cold, you can still recover by going outside and getting some fresh air.
resource: How can Baptist Health help people reduce stress and stay healthy?
Amy Exum: We help you stay healthy and well. Stress is part of everyday life, but if you’re having trouble managing stress, talk to a professional. Many resources are available, including mental health counseling through Baptist Health Care on Demand. Baptist Health also offers a variety of community health classes throughout the week. These classes are available in person or online and are free for everyone. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, so regular visits to your doctor are also important.
Dr. Mishkin: Every year during the holiday season, we see injured people falling off ladders while hanging lights and decorations. Some require him to be tested for COVID before he leaves for vacation. Others feel sick and want to get better in time for the holidays. The emergency care center is open 9am-9pm, seven days a week (holiday hours may vary, please check in advance). Each is staffed by Baptist Health physicians, physician assistants and nurses trained to treat virtually any type of illness or injury.
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