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Q: The holidays are just around the corner, and already I’m completely stressed out. Between my family, work pressures, and the bad economy, it seems impossible to even imagine having a happy holiday season. What can I do?

The holidays can take an enormous emotional and physical toll on us. Increased activities like parties, shopping, cooking, cleaning, and decorating get jammed into already packed schedules leaving us exhausted. Being in contact with people we don’t usually socialize with or dealing with conflicted family relationships can be difficult. There’s also the financial stress that comes with the season. When asked to put on a brave face amidst such forced frivolity, it’s no wonder many of us feel anxious, irritable, angry, or resentful at this time of year.

Despite the pressure you feel right now, it is possible to not just survive this holiday season, but to actually thrive during the weeks ahead. The key to feeling better is...

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