Hi, my name is Todd Baratz. I'm a licensed mental health therapist and a certified sex therapist. I'm here to answer questions submitted by you, the plusOne community. 

The question is how to deal with relationship stress over the holidays. 

The holidays can be stressful and therefore they will put extra stress and tension on a relationship. Here's how you can navigate it better together. 

One, set boundaries. Decide together what's most meaningful and important, and prioritize that. 

Two, communicate expectations. Talk about the stressful parts and the expectations about how you will manage them, whether that's difficult family dynamics or social pressures. Get on the same page. 

Three, take breaks. Schedule time for the relationship, just the two of you, or however many of you there are. This can help you recharge and stay connected during busy season or time. 

Four, be compassionate. During the holidays, it can definitely bring out sides of us that we'd rather keep under wraps, the stress of it all. 

So approach each other with patience and understanding. Follow along to see what question is answered next.