With the year drawing near its close, the holiday season is upon University of Memphis students.
Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, New Years and other observations and celebrations often spell s-t-r-e-s-s for many.
"I would tell people to plan ahead in order to avoid stress," said Eddie Ellsworth, a U of M professor. "Operating from a checklist and not trying to crowd too much into one session is the best way to do it."
Ellsworth also recommended taking little breaks on a regular basis while shopping as a way to fight holiday burnout.
"Planning shopping trips during less crowded times also helps," he said.
This year stands to have a 5 percent increase over last year, and average consumers are expected to spend $738.11 this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation.
Many end up having to shop at the last minute.
"I usually shop a week or two before Christmas because of (lack of) time or money," said Erin Adorno, a senior geography major.
Consumers are expected to pour $43.5 billion into the economy this season, also a 5 percent increase over last 2004.
Another reason for stress during the holidays is the pressure to achieve perfection.
"A reason for stress is that the season is supposed to a happy time," Ellsworth said.
"I think it is important to stay in contact with family and friends that mean something to us to keep it in perspective."
Sally Stevens, a junior general studies major, said she feels like the season has become too commercial instead of personal.
"They get all worked up into frenzy," Stevens said.
She also said that consumerism is what drove her away from holiday shopping.
"I participated when my son was little, but now I just stay away," Stevens said.
Other shoppers can be a major origin of stress.
Adorno said she dislikes the checkout line.
"The people in front of me drive me crazy," she said.
Stevens agreed.
"The most stressful thing to me is (that) everyone drives themselves into a tizzy over shopping. I get tired watching them," she said.
Stevens said parents have the most difficulty.
"I think it is harder for parents especially with smaller kids because they watch television and are constantly having things shoved it their faces," she said.
Getting more generic gifts that apply to all can also ease stress.
Adorno said that while gift certificates may not be especially thoughtful, the gift still "works" because cardholders can purchase whatever they desire.
