(KTAL/KMSS) - Although the last few weeks of the year are usually reserved for people to spend with family, a new study says many Americans desire alone time. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine surveyed 1,000 Americans and found that 46% said they get less alone during the holiday season. Underscoring their appreciation for alone time, 56% of respondents said adequate alone time is vital to their overall mental well-being. Clinical psychologist at the university Sophie Lazarus, PhD., says a brief break can reward you mentally and physically as the demands of a constantly busy world keep us on the move. Taking a few moments to breathe and gather your thoughts helps alleviate holiday stress. Lazarus, who focuses on mindfulness-based mood and anxiety disorders, has tips for anyone who needs help getting through times when stealing a moment for yourself can be very difficult. Fit during the holidays: Trainer shares tips She suggests putting your phone away in a separate room when spending time alone because if it's in the same space, resisting the urge to pick it up could be too difficult. Spending a few moments in the car before picking the kids up or after work is another time that Lazarus says we can take advantage of time alone. Lazarus says making small but meaningful changes consistent with your lifestyle is essential to prioritizing being alone. "One size does not fit everyone. Being flexible and finding balance is best," Lazarus said. Plot twist - she also says alone time doesn't have to look like solitary confinement. "Some people might experience alone time from going to a movie by themselves or going to a park where there's a lot of people, or going to a coffee shop," Lazarus said. "It can also be this absence of having to perform or interact socially in a more direct way."