Study after study states that Asian Americans maintain a higher stress level compared to other groups. However, it seems that this holiday season brings stress to everyone. The American Psychological Association (APA) issued a press release Thursday regarding a new poll that found more than 8 out of 10 people anticipate a stressful holiday season. This poll also found that the economic crisis is impacting women and families the most. What were these sources of stress? In order, they were money (82%), the economy (82%), and work (69%).

Women are more likely than men to worry about having enough money to purchase gifts. About a quarter of the respondents are feeling pressure to purchase gifts. In households with children, these stressors are even more likely.

With the economy in shambles, it seems like folks are having a real love-hate relationship with the holidays. But as APA’s executive director for professional practice states, “It is important to put things in perspective and realize that materialism is not the focus of your holiday.” The press release goes onto provide some ideas to prevent stress, such as taking time for yourself, volunteering and creating realistic expectations.

These ideas shouldn’t be practiced just during a straining holiday season, but throughout the year as well. The number-one suggestion was to take time for yourself. I can’t say how many times you hear that from mentors as an undergraduate: take time for yourself. Often, as involved, young adults, we want to be like the Energizer bunny (machines even!) and turn out product after product, and show up at event after event while living, breathing and drinking caffeine.

My question to you is: how can you change the world if you can’t take care of yourself? How can you prioritize other important issues if you don’t prioritize yourself?

Your work is important, but realize that your work can’t be done if you are keeling over in pain from not eating in the last 10 hours or dozing off at the wheel because you haven’t slept in days. Lead by example, practice what you preach, or pick your own cliché to follow. Bottom line, give a gift to yourself this season: time.