KEY POINTS:
Avoid letting financial and relationship stress get in the way of Christmas, Relationship Services advised today.
National practice manager Cary Hayward said the festive season was a time when relationships could be put under enormous strain, as people drank more or spent time with people they'd rather avoid.
The Christmas and New Year period also usually saw an increase in domestic violence incidents reported to police, brought about by financial and family pressures.
Relationship Services list of tips to avoid stress in the festive season:
1. Make time to relax with those you love.
2. Ask for help. Offer help. Co-operation lightens everyone's load.
3. If things get tense, take a deep breath, change the subject or walk away.
4. Plan a tactful way to leave if a social event gets too stressful.
5. When you don't like what's happening, suggest doing something else.
6. Steer clear of disagreements when you drink.
7. Use a little self-control so you don't say or do something hurtful.
8. Keep kids out of adult disagreements.
9. Make it fun for the kids, and it will be easier for you.
10. Take some time just for you this holiday.
- NZPA
