DENTON (UNT), Texas — While the holiday season is usually a time for family togetherness and celebration, this year will likely be different.

Many families are experiencing economic hardship and festive family gatherings are being discouraged as COVID-19 grinds into its second year. For those who are finding it hard to find joy in the season, the University of North Texas offers experts who can provide suggestions for those who might be struggling with the holidays.

• UNT College of Health and Public Service Clinical Assistant Professor Rachita Sharma offers nine tips for coping with holiday stress and the holiday blues in a year when nothing seems normal. Sharma is also the clinical director of the UNTWELL clinic and researches resilience and positive psychology in mental health counseling.
   
• UNT College of Education Professor Lauren Kelly offers insight about the economic impact of COVID-19 for families during the holiday season as well as a variety of resources to keep the holiday spirit alive without adding to financial strain. Kelly has previously worked with children experiencing abuse and neglect and currently teaches classes about families in crisis and public policy.