Stress and depression can ruin your holidays and hurt your health. Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support can help ward off stress and depression.

The holiday season in a typical year can bring dizzying demands with gifts, family, friends, events and more. Compound that with the cost and any year can be too much. This year we have the added stressor of Covid that keeps us away from those we love and maybe we have lost a loved one. The holidays are a tough time for many and this year may be even worse.

So, what are some things we can do to help minimize the stress and depression this year? (These tips brought to you by the Mayo clinic)

1. Acknowledge your feelings. If someone close to you has recently died or you can't be with loved ones for other reasons, realize that it's normal to feel sadness and grief. It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.

2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or...