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Ideally, the holidays are a time for families to be reunited and cozy up to warm hugs and funny reminiscing of stories from the past. However, this is not the case for everyone. Sometimes, going back to one's hometown brings back bad memories and old habits that cause stress and anxiety.

In a study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 64 percent of people diagnosed with a mental illness report that their symptoms worsen during the holidays. This can be due to several reasons, like the pressure of unrealistic family expectations and the stress of returning to their old roles. The good news is that these can be avoided. Here's how to deal with the mental stress that returning home brings.

1. Plan ahead

Before traveling home, make sure you plan ahead. This includes your schedule, the activities you can do with your family and friends when you get there and a temporary routine you can follow while you're there. Remember to include your budget in your planning and stick to it while you're there. Planning will relieve you of the anxiety of not knowing what to do next and the feeling of being stuck. 

2. Learn to say 'no'

Learning to say "no," especially to family members, can be difficult for some people. However, it is an important skill to learn, particularly when returning to your hometown during the holidays. Remember that it is alright to say no to some invites and commitments so that you can still prioritize your own needs and feelings. 

3. Be respectful and realistic

As you and your family have grown individually, you may be expecting to have the same bond as before. Having realistic expectations will make you feel happier, especially during this season. Be respectful of any differences you may have developed, and be supportive of your family's decisions.