The holiday season is supposed to be joyous, but nearly nine in ten American adults report being overwhelmed this time of year, according to an American Psychological Association poll. Mary Morehouse a psychotherapist for Duluth Insight Counseling offers some advice

It’s OK to say no.

Be honest. Be sincere. And be vague. You don’t need to over-explain yourself or say yes right away.

Feel free to take some time to answer or suggest another day.

It’s OK to ask for help,

It can be hard to ask for help because you are giving up some control when you do.

Mary reminds us, “The number one way we can feel better about ourselves is to help others. So allow the loved ones in your life to help. Then go with their strengths.”

Let go of the idea of perfect.

Have you ever had a perfect day? Mary says she hasn’t yet, “Of course, we are human. Humans are by design not perfect.” If something goes wrong, be ready to pivot.

Make a budget and get creative.

This is one of the most common stresses over the holiday season. Make a budget that works for you. Get creative when it comes to gift. Something you make yourself can mean a lot.

And if it’s too much to get gifts for your entire family, consider drawing names for secret santa.