ADVANCED psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist CLAIRE GASKIN sees clients in Essex and in London’s Harley Street. She is now bringing her expertise to the problems of our readers as our agony aunt. If you have a problem you’d like Claire’s advice with, emailagonyaunt@nqe.com For more details on Claire’s work, www.benefittherapy.co.uk Today Claire brings us her Christmas stress survival guide.... 

1. Make a List Write down all the things that need to be done. Cross off everything which isn’t important, including items that are only for tradition’s sake but you don’t enjoy.

2. Write a Timetable Draw up a timetable of what needs to be done, and when. If you’re in charge of dinner, add cooking and start times. Stick it somewhere visible, such as on the fridge.

3. Start Early Don’t leave everything to the last minute - there’s nothing like a deadline to create stress. Finish shopping and complete chores in the run-up, to leave you free on Christmas Day.

4. Ask for Help If everything normally falls to you, this year distribute age-appropriate tasks among the family and tick items off your timetable as you go.

5. Make an Escape Plan If you’re already feeling stressed at the thought of spending time with people you would rather avoid, have a pre-prepared plan of excuses for taking time out.

6. Avoid Excess Alcohol It can be tempting to use alcohol to numb stress but it makes your body work harder and shortens your fuse. Keep a clear head to strengthen resilience.

7. Recognise the Signs Realising that you’re stressed means you can take action.

8. Breathe! Take some deep breaths and reduce stress with a breathing exercise like this: benefittherapy. co.uk/heartbreathing

9. Relax and Have Fun Finally, if things don’t work out quite as you’d hoped, try to see the funny side and be grateful for what you have. Avoid awkward conversation topics, reject unrealistic expectations and focus on what makes you happy, so you can relax and enjoy this special time of year. Merry Christmas