(Le Mars) -- Stress and depression.  We don't typically sing Christmas Carols

about either, but it's still part of the holiday season for many people.  Elissa

Meylor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Plains Area Mental Health

says that over-commitment is one of the biggest stressors during the holidays. 

Meylor recommends making a list to prioritize.

Listen here

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

If you're already over committed, Meylor says to think ahead and delegate.

Physically it's important to fuel your body with healthy foods, eat sweets in

moderation, get plenty of rest and keep exercising to release stress.  Meylor

says there's one simple thing to do if you start to feel the weight on your

shoulders.

Listen here

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

For some people holiday gatherings are a sad and frustrating time because of

life circumstances. Therapist Elissa Meylor says that being social is important,

but making sure you're around the right people without overwhelming yourself is

key.

Listen here

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Another holiday downer that can get the best of us often relates to finances. 

Before you finish shopping, the American Psychological Association recommends

writing down how much you plan an spending and stick to it.