The takeaway of all of these holiday mental health tips? At the end of the day, it’s important to focus on what brings you happiness during this season. Do your best to maximize those moments and minimize those that leave you feeling less than fulfilled. Whether it’s eating well, getting enough sleep, or simply relaxing by yourself, go into the holidays with the goal of minimizing your stress.

Don’t focus too much on the stressors - and don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be a holly jolly all the time, either. These kinds of expectations will only leave you feeling deflated when they don’t turn out the way you wanted them to.

From the shopping to the parties, the unending litany of criticisms from the in-laws to the stress of holiday decorating, the holidays make it easy to feel overwhelmed. However, these expert-backed tips will help you make it through the most wonderful time of the year actually feeling wonderful - no Xanax required.