Ladies’ Home Journal
January 2009

Less Stress in 2009
7 experts share their own New Year’s resolutions

The Expert: ERIN OLIVO, Ph.D., M.P.H., assistant professor of medical psychology at Columbia University Medical Center and a psychologist in private practice.

Stress Confession:
I GET SO BUSY THAT I FORGET TO EAT.
My patient schedule is crazy. In the past week I’ve scheduled meetings to 10 P.M. Then, in an attempt to do it all, I’ll tell someone else, “Sure, I can do 8 A.M.” for the next morning. Sometimes I’ll skip eating and get a headache. I’m hungry but don’t have time to eat.

New Year’s Resolution:
LISTEN TO—AND TAKE CARE OF—MY BODY.
Stress affects our moods, but its real impact is on our bodies. Research has shown that stress is linked to cardiovascular disease, so it’s a health issue, not just a quality-of-life issue. I need to recognize that by taking car of myself—taking time to eat, sleep and exercise—I’ll be better able to take care of other people. I think we’re told to be a superwoman and do it all. We can do a great job, but we should observe our won limits. I need to commit to putting my own needs into my daily schedule.