AUSTIN (KXAN) — With the holiday season underway, some might be feeling additional stress as they navigating gift giving, attending festivities with extended family or grieving the loss of loved ones. And they aren't alone: A 2023 study from the American Psychological Association found 41% of U.S. adults' stress levels uptick during the November to January timeframe. Kate Carmichael with ATX Counseling spoke with KXAN News' midday team Monday and said it's critical to lower the stakes surrounding the holidays and remind yourself that it doesn't need to be a "perfect" celebration. She said not everything needs to come together perfectly or be resolved during the holidays; rather, showing up and being present is an accomplishment. With the holidays comes plenty of celebratory food and drinks — but Carmichael said people should be mindful of possible underlying causes for overindulgence. When it comes to stress, excessive eating or alcohol consumption can be a sign of negative coping skills. She encouraged people to think about the driving behavior behind them reaching for those items, and to talk to experts on how to best manage that and process any deeper feelings coming up. For those facing financial strains this holiday season, she advocated for honing in on what's financially available for you and what you're able to give within your means. If people are feeling pinched, Carmichael said that can leave them feeling resentful instead of compassionate toward their loved ones. Speaking of loved ones, she added the holidays can be especially difficult for those navigating grief and loss. "I think grief is one of the biggest struggles that people face," she said. The holidays provide an opportunity to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the year to come, she said. Carmichael added it's important for people to look for ways to honor themselves and their grief this season as they feel those big emotions.