The holidays are a stressful time of year for many people. There are many things you can do to help make the stress of the season more bearable. First, realize that it is okay to feel sad, depressed, stressed or anything other than the happy person that people expect. Next, be realistic – know that situations change and with them traditions and rituals change as well. Change isn’t always easy, but creating new traditions when its time will help ease any stress you feel. Perhaps the most effective way to relive holiday stress is to learn to say no when you need to. Saying yes to every get together, work assignment, and friend while leaving no time for yourself and your family is the number one way to burn-out during this festive season. By limiting yourself to only what is absolutely necessary and/or most important to you, you will limit the amount of stress you allow into your life which makes it easier to spend a few minutes on yourself. Making time for yourself during the next couple of hectic weeks is important for your mental health. Even if you just spend 15 minutes alone to take a quick walk, read a magazine, or listen to music, spending time alone and clearing your mind can reduce stress and help you stay calm as things heat up. Finally, recognize that along with being stressful, the holidays can be a sad, lonely, and depressing time for many people so don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends, family, community, or support groups if you need to and by all means, seek professional help if you need it. The holidays should be a time filled with joy and not stress!