Holiday Thoughts

By Donald C. Bartnick, CMPE, CEO

Maryland Eye Associates

. http://marylandeyeassociates.com

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Holiday Thoughts

As we approach the holiday season, we need to be thankful for our health and strive to preserve it. Our bodies, our psyche and our health are intimately intertwined in a continually adjusting, dynamic interaction. Awareness and prevention, vigilance and balance are essential to achieving and maintaining health.

The holiday season is one time during the year when we are more likely to become ill. Several factors are present at this time of year that causes us to be more susceptible to disease. The changing climate is one factor. Falling and deteriorating leaves provide an excellent medium for growth of mold and bacteria. Rapid temperature change causes our metabolism to work harder to maintain our body temperature. Changes in the pattern of night and day (specifically the amount of daylight) can cause psychological reactions as can the realization that summer and fall are coming to an end. The changing climate usually results in a limitation on the amount and duration of our outside activity thus limiting our exposure to sunlight and fresh air. We spend more time inside in artificial light and recirculated air. Stay healthy. Undertake alternative outside activities to maintain your exposure to daylight and fresh air. Eat healthy to support your immune system and provide the nutrition necessary to combat infection.

During the holiday season we spend time with friends and family. Frequently we share meals together. Almost always these activities take place inside. This increased person-to-person contact increases the opportunity for infections, flus, and viruses to spread. Although foodborne illnesses are actually more prevalent during summer months, the CDC and others place particular emphasis on preventing foodborne illness during the holidays. Good personal hygiene (hand-washing) and proper food selection and preparation can help to significantly decrease cross infection/contamination.

Most people believe that the holiday season should be a time of fun and joy filled with celebrations and social gatherings of friends and family. But for many, it may be a time of sadness, loneliness and anxiety. Increased stress results from financial demands, increased shopping and expenditures. Family members' expectations frequently interfere with personal schedules and needs. Old patterns of dysfunctional behaviors replay themselves year after year. We have all felt this stress. We also know that stress increases our susceptibility to disease and exacerbates chronic illnesses. We need to continue and increase those behaviors that relieve stress. Exercise and nutritious regular meals are essential ingredients for stress reduction.

Depression and suicides generally occur at a higher rate during the holidays than at other times during the year. In a recent survey, two-thirds of senior citizens reported that they have suffered depression during the holidays to the extent of not participating in the season's activities. Many of us have experienced depression during the holidays resulting from the stress of the season, the replay of sad events from the previous year, fatigue, unmet expectations, excessive obligations, etc. Some suggestions for dealing with this during the holidays include avoid being alone and engage in activities that are good for you. Volunteer at a local church or soup kitchen; help others in need. Exercise with others. Define your personal limits and stick to them. If you are so inclined, attend religious or cultural programs celebrating the joy of the season and observe the reactions and enjoyment of others. Focus on the positive; find something in every situation or in every person that's uplifting.

Do things that are good for you. Earlier I mentioned being vigilant. With your health remain constantly aware of changes in your body, mind and spirit. When you feel it is necessary, seek help. Help may come from a pastor, a friend, or your doctor. Your church leader, your friends and your doctor are in the position they are because they want to help. In different ways, but for similar reasons, each of these types of people have committed their energies to you.

The doctors and staff of Maryland Eye Associates want you to enjoy this holiday season.