CIHR experts offer suggestions for stress-free holiday

The holiday season is synonymous with joy, family and sharing, but it can also mean anxiety, melancholy and illness. With the recent economic downturn and the H1N1 pandemic, many Canadians are facing higher stress levels, sleepless nights and health problems. They may feel pressured to take part in holiday activities such as gift shopping, travel, and cooking; not to mention getting energized for gatherings with family and friends. How can they manage this stressful time of the year?

In light of the festive season, experts from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) are available to discuss the impact of holiday stress on people and provide suggestions on how to have a healthier holiday.

Experts:

Christmas shopping through the financial crisis - Is this making you anxious?
Dr. Rémi Quirion, CIHR-funded researcher from the Douglas Research Centre (Montreal)
Dr. Hymie Anisman, CIHR-funded researcher from Carleton University and Canada Research Chair in Neuroscience (Ottawa)

Cleaning, decorating and cooking - Managing "Martha Stewart'' syndrome.
Dr. Anthony Phillips, Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction
(Vancouver)

Disrupting kids' routines. How can parents help children from becoming stressed during the holiday?
Dr. Michael Kramer, Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (Montreal)

Touching, kissing and H1N1 - Coping with H1N1 during the festive period.
Dr. Bhagirath Singh, Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (London)

Sweet tooth no more! Healthy eating at holiday parties.
Dr. Katherine-Gray Donald, CIHR-funded researcher from McGill University (Montreal)

Too much of a good thing! Avoiding alcohol abuse.
Dr. Louise Nadeau, CIHR-funded researcher from the Université de Montréal

Source: Canadian Institutes of Health Research