Stressy Christmas for 37m
Around 37 million shoppers will be suffering from stress in the run up to Christmas, claims Post Office Gift Vouchers.
New figures say that 46 per cent of people will become stressed while they are out shopping for loved ones this Xmas, and a third of shoppers will become anxious and even angry about finding the perfect gift.
This type of stress can manifest itself in a range of symptoms, from fainting, sleepless nights and headaches to tears on the shop floor!
Psychologist Dr Susan Quilliam said: 'What's happening here, psychologically, is that we buy gifts not only to show we love others but also to make them feel worthwhile.
'If we get it wrong the recipient is going to feel not just cheated of a good gift but worthless in themselves. That's why present buying is so crucial and why we get so stressed about it!'
Perhaps the key to stress free Christmas shopping is planning. Think about how much money you have to spend on gifts and the stick to this budget.
Another tip is to write a shopping list and think about what you're going to buy beforehand, so that you can go straight to a shop and make your purchase.
Planning also means you are less likely to overspend and be left with costly debts in the New Year. | 
