By Megan Ma
 Psychological counselor Greg Burns said budgeting time properly can be a major stress reliever. |
And you thought smoking was bad.
“Stress is six times more likely to produce cancer and heart disease than smoking or cholesterol,” said Greg Burns, a professional psychological counselor who spoke to Los Altos Kiwanis Club members last week. Burns quoted from a surprising new American Psychological Association (APA) study.
Long-term stress can be lethal, Burns said at the Dec. 6 Kiwanis meeting. Recently the APA has found stress over long periods leads directly to high blood pressure, heart disease and even brain atrophy. The holiday season can aggravate that situation even more, he said.
“It’s easy to get wiped out during the holidays. There’s the pressure to buy your loved ones the perfect gift,” one Kiwanis member said.
Burns acknowledged that traffic and holiday crowds can also make getting things done seem impossible. He advised people to gauge how much they need to get done and budget their time accordingly.
Unrealistic expectations during the holiday season can add to the anxiety, Burns said. Some expect their reunion with friends and family after years to be ideal and special. The reality can be disappointing.
“It’s normal to get stressed and depressed” Burns said, “when the situation doesn’t match or measure up to our illusion of it.”
According to Burns, people suffering from holiday jitters and other sources of long-term anxiety can sometimes slide into depression. It’s a big comfort to reassure someone that their feelings are normal.
“Allowing people to own their feelings is enormously powerful,” Burns noted.
Stress is a function of our perceptions, Burns concluded. Helping someone stay positive can make a huge difference. Whether during the holiday month or further down the road, Burns said, overcoming long-term stress can literally save someone’s life.
Burns is a licensed personal and professional counselor who holds a master’s degree in professional and executive counseling services. His practice is located in Los Altos at 309 Second St.
For more information, call 917-0869.
