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Don't Get Too Wrapped Up in Gifts

It may sound cliché, but one of the best ways I manage my social anxiety during the holidays is by stepping back a bit from the frenzied shopping and gift-related stress and simply remembering what the season is about: being grateful for and spending time with the ones I love. At least for me, the expectation of finding "the perfect gift" can sometimes be too much to handle, especially when finding it means frantically wading through crowds at the mall.

Although it's practically impossible to forget about material gifts, and giving your mom a perfume because you know she loves the smell of gardenias can fill you both with joy, reminding yourself that the point of the season is not what gift you gave or received can be helpful in easing the stress. I've even taken it one step further, by buying gifts weeks or months in advance or suggesting a Secret Santa exchange with family and friends to help take the pressure off.

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography