For many, the holidays bring extra pressure to already stressed lives that often leave people angry, frustrated, or depressed. While there’s no easy solution to eliminate stress entirely, there are ways to help ease you through the season with less difficulty.

According to a staff report from www.mayoclinic.com, holiday meltdowns and disappointments arise from three “trigger” areas.

“Relationships can cause turmoil, conflict or stress at any time, but tensions are often heightened during the holidays. Family misunderstandings and conflicts can intensify — especially if you’re thrust together for several days,” reported the Mayo Clinic staff.

The report mentioned that finances can pose challenges during the holiday season. “With the added expenses of gifts, travel, food and entertainment, the holidays can put a strain on your budget — and your peace of mind,” noted the report. “Not to mention that overspending now can mean financial worries for months to come.”

Holidays also take a physical toll on individuals and families. “Even die-hard holiday enthusiasts may find that the extra shopping and socializing can leave them wiped out,” noted the report. “Being exhausted increases your stress.”

When it comes to relationship problems, Kristy Carbonneau, a licensed clinical social worker in Lewiston, believes that the holidays are never the right time to “hash out” differences. Such conflicts can cause discomfort for those who may witness the interaction and their holiday should not be dictated by arguments rather than celebrations.

“If a family member attempts to raise an issue of discontent, I offer to clients that they attempt to redirect these remarks with a simple statement denoting that now is neither the time nor the place to hold this conversation. If the family member continues to pursue the argument, I have offered, as a last resort, that you may always dismiss yourself from the situation,” said Carbonneau. “Civility is key.”

Carbonneau explained that while removing yourself from a situation is not always optimal, it does set a precedent with that family member and a limit that you will not allow yourself to be placed in a compromising situation.

Lorraine O. Wight, a licensed clinical social worker from Lisbon Falls, believes that by taking action, disasters can be averted. “Try to enjoy the present moment and don’t dredge up old conflicts,” said Wight.

When it comes to finances, one of the biggest stress producers during the holidays is overspending.

“Decide together with your significant other or spouse on whom you will be buying for and allot how much you would like to spend on those individuals,” said Carbonneau. “Also, be upfront with people about gift giving. You may want to set a mutually agreed upon limit or decide not to give each other a gift.”

Pacing oneself and breaking up tasks is vital to survive the weeks before Christmas. Wight recommends that people pick a favorite holiday activity and focus only on those things that will make them feel good.

“If all the baking and cooking stresses you out, (simply) buy the food and use the spare time on things you like doing during the holidays,” said Wight. “Keep it simple and enjoy the moment.”

Carbonneau cautioned that expecting to get everything done in a day or in one weekend is unrealistic and can cause you to feel overwhelmed.

“Break your ‘to do list’ into small tasks,” said Carbonneau. “If you try to get everything done at once, by the time the holiday draws near you run the risk of getting sick due to stress and a potentially compromised immune system.”

Carbonneau suggested creating group projects to ease the burden of things to be done.

“Encourage others in the family to help. Bake cookies and sing holiday carols while everyone in the family helps to wrap gifts. Make a special family night out of decorating the house,” she said. “It can create a feeling of togetherness and you don’t have to feel the burden of the holiday on your shoulders alone.”

Despite your best efforts, if you find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores, during the holiday, the Mayo Clinic staff recommends talking with your family physician or a mental health professional.