The holiday season may be wrapped in the glow of twinkling lights and the warmth of family gatherings, but for many Americans, it's also the season of financial fret and kin-related conundrums. A recent poll by the American Psychiatric Association has shed light on the taut nerves of the populace, revealing that 44% of adults are looking forward to seeing family and friends, yet over half are sweating over the price tag attached to the festive cheer, as reported by KXAN.

Santa's bag appears lighter this year—with folks worrying over affording gifts and whether their feast spread will be enough for visiting guests. As Rawle Andrews, the Executive Director of the American Psychiatric Association Foundation, laid out the stark reality, "These pocketbook issues around a perfect holiday, there’s no such thing. But these are the things that are driving the stress," as per KXAN.

Andrews, in a relayed message of hope, stresses the importance of support systems for those overwhelmed, pointing to the "988 line" available for those in need—a number championing the movement to holistic wellness.