December 6, 2001
Contact: Jennifer Day, (313) 577-1429, jday@med.wayne.edu

Holiday Tip Sheet

Remember your heart this holiday season
Wayne State University doctors would like to remind people that, although there are lots of other things to worry about during this hectic time of year, it’s important to keep your heart in mind. Holiday stress, bending the rules on diet restrictions and even traveling can be dangerous for those at risk or already suffering from pre-existing heart conditions. Also, WSU cardiologists warn, be careful of excessive alcohol consumption. Binge drinking can bring on atrial fibrillation, a dangerous malfunction in the heart’s rhythm that can lead stroke.

Coping with “I want! I want!”
Learn tips for handling the excitement of the holiday season. Frequently, children have different expectations than parents, and WSU child psychiatrists can discuss how to cope with this phenomenon, particularly when your child wants absolutely everything for Christmas. Also, learn how to get your kids more involved in giving during this holiday season.

Experts available to speak on holiday depression
People usually think of holidays as joyous times of the year, but for many, they trigger depression. Unrealistic expectations, inability to be with family members (or being with family members) and increased stress and fatigue can contribute to holiday depression. For more information on this phenomenon and for ways to combat it, call us. Several members of the WSU School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences can answer your questions.

Holiday safety experts can answer reporters’ questions
You’ve made your list and you’ve checked it twice, but have you made sure that all of your holiday gifts are safe enough to give? Every year U.S hospitals treat hundreds of thousands of children injured by toys. Unfortunately, our affiliated hospitals have treated their share. Our Department of Emergency Medicine can help answer questions about how to make sure your Christmas stays safe. For further information on choosing safe toys, you may also want to visit the U.S. Consumer Information Center at:  www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/children/toysplay/fpsp.html.

Please note this intended for story ideas only.