Are You married to tradition

Traditions are one of the sweetest parts of the holidays. But, sorry—sometimes plans change.

What you should do: Treasure your traditions, but be open to new ones. Sometimes the holidays don’t look exactly as we remember them or how we think they should look—or taste. Take a look at how your life has changed in the past year. Be flexible and willing to compromise—holidays are about more than what you eat and where you eat it, or about a gift’s price point.

You’re struggling with depression or another health problem.

The holidays can be particularly trying for people with depression and other mental illnesses. Feeling depressed at this time of year “can be particularly hard because we’re expected to be happy,” says Stephanie S. Smith, PsyD, psychologist at Front Range Psychological Associates.

What you should do: Being open and honest about your emotions ahead of time will take some of the pressure off of staying cheery. Talk with family members before the holidays and decide which traditions work best for you.