For more information:
Bob Edwards
Public Relations Department Assistant
Glenville State College
Glenville, West Virginia
(304) 462-7361x7610

Glenville, WV—The holiday season is a wonderful time of the year, but for many it is a time of increased stress that can adversely affect their health. The holidays typically involve overspending, overeating, over drinking, and well, over everything. Proper planning and increased attention to scheduling and activities can help alleviate some of these problems.

Stress can be a contributing factor for many health problems including weight gain, blood pressure, and heart trouble, to name just a few. The demands of the holiday season can cause your stress level to skyrocket. Glenville State College Associate Professor of Business, Dr. Charles Batson, who has conducted seminars on stress in the business place, offered says there are many warning signs for stress: irritability, depression, impulsive behavior, fatigue, boredom, poor concentration, impatience, trembles, body aches, digestive disorders, and sleeplessness. Any of these symptoms could indicate an increased level of stress. “Heart disease is still the number one killer, and stress is a contributing cause of heart disease,” said Batson. Controlling stress during this period can help keep you healthy and help you enjoy the season more.

The Stress Education Center offers some tips on controlling stress during the holidays:
• Get regular physical activity; exercise can reduce stress levels.
• Set limits; stay within those limits for finances, food, and fun.
• Minimize your intake of caffeine and alcohol.
• Do not overeat; plan your daily calorie intake
• Reach out for support if you are depressed or overwhelmed.
• Find the true spirit of the season and share it with family and friends.

The Glenville State College Health Center, in conjunction with the PEIA Wellness Program, is once again participating in Weigh to Go, a program designed to help limit holiday weight gain to three pounds or less. Last year eight people from the GSC community took advantage of the program, and this year there are 29 participating. “I think that in general, people are more aware of the health problems that can be associated with the holidays but are trying to take steps to be healthier. Stress can make us overeat, exercise can reduce stress and in turn help us control our weight. At GSC we are fortunate to have a great fitness center that can help us get the exercise that we all need,” said Julia Barr R.N., Glenville State College Health Nurse. The GSC Fitness Center is not only open to faculty, staff, and students, but is also available to local residents.

Barr says moderation is the key especially during the holiday season between Thanksgiving and New Year. Be careful not to over indulge and you may experience a healthier and happier holiday. More information on surviving the holidays is available from Julia Barr at the GSC Campus Health Center in the Mollohan Campus Community Center or by calling her at (304) 462-7361 ext. 7430