AUGUSTA, Ga. – Holiday tasks like decorating, shopping and family feasts can lead to stress, but there are ways to take a step back and enjoy the season.

The parking lot was full at Kroger on Washington Road Monday as shoppers prepared for Thanksgiving.

"I hope I got everything. If not, it will be another run to the store,” shopper Melody Placker said.

"So, I'm doing it again," shopper Annette Robinson said. "35 years of sweet potato soufflé."

This time of year, stress and depression are on the rise, according to Dr. Jeremy Hertza, the Director of Behavioral Medicine at Walton Rehabilitation Health System.

"I don't think I've met anybody who in the moment says it's as magical as the media portrays it. It's more like get me out of here,” Hertza said.

There are ways to manage holiday stress. For example, you can make a list and share responsibilities.

"You can delegate and say I'm not doing dessert. You have fun with that,” Hertza said.

Exercising and taking a moment to count to ten might also help, but Hertza says, mostly it's important to have realistic expectations and enjoy the little things about the holiday.

“[When you’re at the dinner table] sit next to somebody who relaxes you, not the one person who drives you crazy,” Hertza said.

Still, there may be some things that you just can't get out of.

“I bought all the stuff to make that sweet potato soufflé...,” Robinson said.

Doctor Hertza says, this holiday season, instead of stressing out about having fun, just try to relax, enjoy your family and let it happen.

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