Christmas-frenzied Filipinos warned of ‘holiday stress’

While the Yuletide season is undeniably filled with joy, the public must be aware that there is such a thing as “holiday stress” which can possibly take away the happiness in Christmas.

“Traffic, crowds, and shopping wear down holidaymakers…. It’s certainly not a fun way

to spend the holidays,” said Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) Foundation President Anthony Leachon.

He said the public should be cautious of the so-called “holiday stress” which could lead to heart attack and stroke, among others. Compared to any other time of the year, more people suffer from these illnesses during the Yuletide season.

“More people suffer heart attack and stroke in Christmastime. Worse, sufferers are more likely to die than any other time of the year,” Leachon noted.

He said there is an “informal survey” of Metro Manila hospitals from 2004 to 2008 which revealed that there is a tripling of emergencies and admissions during the Christmas season. It showed that cases of heart attack and stroke rose to 153 in December 2004; 163 in 2005; 172 in 2006; 170 in 2007; and 170 in 2008.

Leachon said the number is higher when compared to only about 30 to 50 cases being reported from January to November.

Earlier, the Department of Health (DOH) urged the public to plan well all their Christmas activities in order to prevent tension and stress. They should also avoid crowded areas as diseases multiply and spread easily in areas that are not wellventilated.

Moreover, the DOH said people must have enough sleep in order to give their mind and body time to rest.