Read this if you felt like 2018 was a really tough year

What a century this year has been. No Images? Click here     This year was tough — just ask a therapist. This week, reporter Nicole Pajer asked experts to share some of the most common issues people discussed in their sessions and how to deal with them on a daily basis. From a fear of mass shootings to social media comparison, some of the topics really sum up the stress of living in 2018. If you’re also experiencing some of these problems, there are ways to manage what you’re going through. But most importantly, you should know that you’re not alone. —Lindsay You oughta know Do you ever wonder why your family gets on your nerves more at the holidays? Reporter Colleen Travers chatted with experts on what exactly leads to a shorter fuse during this time of year. Here’s what you need to know: Being around family causes old dynamics to resurface. Although you’re not a child anymore, you’re suddenly back in that environment. That can cause you — and your family — to revert to old behaviors (curfews, anyone?). This, in turn, can make you more frustrated. There’s a pressure to appear perfect. Particularly on social media. And if things aren’t perfect (and really, who has a family that is?) then emotions can run high, experts said. MORE REASONS YOUR FAMILY IRRITATES YOU AT THE HOLIDAYS   A minute and change Got a spare minute? Use it to change your life. Our "A Minute And Change" project will help you become happier, healthier and more productive by doing one thing a little differently. This week’s tip comes from Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman on the quick trick she uses when her self-esteem is low: If I’m feeling self-conscious, I’ll go for a walk outside and focus on my surroundings and being present in the moment. So often when we are going about our days, we’re thinking of the past and the future and not the present moment. When you’re present, you’re not going to be worrying about an Instagram you posted or how you look. Crushing on this 'Gram Before you go... Read this fascinating dive into the downsides of taking an at-home genetic test like 23andMe or Ancestry.com. Reporter Julia Ries uncovered a few negatives about the DNA kits, which are pretty popular holiday gifts. (Life insurance can spike your rates based on your results, for example. Yikes.) A little food for thought before you swab! Want more wellness? 16 Relatable Tweets We Don't Need To Explain To Introverts Take heart, quiet types: Twitter has your back. Restricting Yourself From Holiday Treats Can Backfire In A Big Way Experts share how indulging is healthier for you in the long run. 21 Too-Real Cartoons About The Struggle To Practice Mindfulness Find the humor in meditation, yoga and more.    .     HuffPost is now a part of Oath and a part of Verizon. On May 25, 2018 we introduced a new Oath Privacy Policy which will explain how your data is used and shared. Learn More. No moon dust. No B.S. Just a completely essential daily guide to achieving the good life. Subscribe here. Like what you see? Share it. Can't get enough? You'll also love HuffPost's Entertainment newsletter. ©2018 HuffPost | 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 You are receiving this email because you signed up for updates from HuffPost Feedback | Privacy Policy | Unsubscribe        . - - Preferences  |  Unsubscribe