It’s already here, and it's inescapable. Everywhere you turn there are candy canes, colored leaves, and red branded coffee cups. As the wind begins to wisp around you, you will find holiday music already playing in department stores. While Thanksgiving has yet to arrive, it can seem overwhelming for those not yet prepared for the holidays and all that joins it. I, personally, love this time of year, but it can switch to being too overbearing too quick. Shoppers tend to get pushy and demanding, everyone becomes tense, and the holiday spirit can become lost in all the expectations on how to act during this time.

Not to mention when visitors come over. As Aunt Marge is piling high three plates worth of food, Cousin Gregory is chasing the younger children and pets around the house and Grandma Ethel is smoking outside while gossiping about how those millennials are ruining traditions. To your left, your nieces and nephews are crowding around the television, avoiding Cousin Gregory, for whatever cartoon specials are being played this year. Their dream of animation is turned to dust, though, when Uncle Joseph changes the channel to the biggest sports match of the day. A whole conglomerate of relatives and friends are in the kitchen either cooking or waiting impatiently for the food to be made.

Essentially, visitors can be stressful. You love them, but it all seems too much at once. Sometimes you feel you need to just run out, screaming into the streets to relieve some tension. But that wouldn’t be appropriate. You may find that leaving the stress of holidays seems frowned upon, but remember: Nothing matters more than your mental health. If you’ve had a bad day, it’s OK to take time out for yourself. Taking time for yourself helps you recharge and give you a chance to enjoy the season fully. Don’t feel pressured to try interact socially if you can’t. Find an activity that speaks to you, maybe even calms you. Finally cracking open that coloring book you purchased, listening to your favorite musician, or watching a television show by yourself might be just what you need before seeing others.

These upcoming holidays should be joyful and full of hope. This is the season of giving, and you must remember to give to yourself, as well. Rewarding yourself can help ease some of the tension built up throughout the year. Love yourself this holiday season so you can love others.

Have a stress-free holiday, everyone!