Feeling stressed around the holidays is not uncommon. In fact, the APA reported that 41% of Americans said their stress level increased over the holiday season and that finances were the most common cause.

Finding ways to ease this stress can help improve your overall mental health and allow you to enjoy everything the season offers.

Here are a few tips for lowering financial stress during the holidays. 

• Recognize symptoms of stress. When the holidays come around, it’s easy to get so busy that you forget to pay attention to the warning signs that you are becoming stressed. Some signs of stress can include problems sleeping, being more irritable, feeling depressed or having body aches. If you feel these symptoms, it may be time to slow down.

• Know your financial limitations. Set a budget of what you are willing to spend this holiday season. A lot of stress comes from the money spent wanting the perfect gift for that special person or your children. Letting your children know that some things are too expensive and that even Santa Claus has a budget is OK. You can get someone a meaningful and personal gift without spending a fortune. 

• Decorate with flair. Don’t get caught up in the over-priced decorations of the holidays. Instead, look around your yard for tree branches, holly, acorns, leaves and many other items that make festive decor. A bag of cranberries and popcorn creates an old-fashioned holiday trim. Pour Epsom salt “snow” into clear containers and tie them with ribbon.  

• Enjoy free and inexpensive holiday activities. There are plenty of holiday activities that don’t cost money. Snuggle up with the family and watch a classic holiday movie or pull out your best board games and celebrate with a game night. Check out your local community calendar for free holiday activities and performances such as a tree lighting or parade.

• Take time for yourself. No rule says that you have to be there for everyone all the time. It is important that you take a break occasionally to give yourself a chance to rest and recharge. You must ensure you keep doing those little things that keep you healthy, like sleeping and eating well so you can function at your best.

For more on mental health and the holidays, check out the Holiday Toolkit.