It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas but for many people the season of goodwill is a time of heightened stress and anxiety.

Staff at a Sydney mental health facility have noticed a pattern of greater admissions of distressed patients during the holiday period.

Clinical psychologist Judy Chan says people either admit themselves or are admitted by family members to Wesley Hospital, Ashfield when they became unable to cope.

"Some may have been thinking suicidal thoughts, or made attempts, or just feel they are unsafe," she told AAP.

Christmas can highlight existing cracks within families or intensify the pressure of a family breakdown, she said.

"There may already be conflict and because we're bombarded with images of happy families, we feel this pressure to gather together and try to get along with each other."

For people who have lost loved ones or are without family, the festive season may highlight their loneliness and grief by reminding them of what they haven't got, Ms Chan said.

"Which, of course, is an illusion."

If you know Christmas lunch with the relatives will lead to the annual family screaming match then Ms Chan recommends avoiding it entirely.

"Practise saying no," she advises.

And if not going will make things worse, try and limit how long you spend there or bring a friend who you trust to support you.

The most important thing to remember is you can't please everyone, Ms Chan said.

"You may upset some people but everyone is responsible for their own feelings."

Ms Chan blames relentless retailer advertising for pushing the perfect happy family Christmas cliche.

"We're bombarded by through TV, music, social media," she said.

"They want people to overspend on trying to recreate that image."

People with pre-existing mental health conditions should also plan for alternative care as services often shut over the Christmas break.

"Plan ahead, if people know their normal support system will be shut get others and even schedule an appointment just in case," Ms Chan said.

"Don't wait until it's too late to get help."

10 TIPS FOR COPING WITH STRESS AND ANXIETY OVER CHRISTMAS

* Don't overthink or catastrophise situations

* Limit your alcohol intake; it may appear to alleviate stress but can aggravate anxiety in the long term

* Avoid burdening yourself with responsibility; before accepting an invitation or agreeing to cook Christmas dinner consider whether you can realistically commit

* Practise saying no; it's okay to put someone off

* Don't aim for perfection and avoid worrying about the small stuff

* Budget and make lists of what you actually need to avoid making impulse purchases

* Take time out; the rush of staying busy can be addicting and lead to stress

* Share your problems with a trusted friend to help ease stress or anxiety

* Avoid overindulging on sugary and processed foods

* If you do find yourself suffering from stress and anxiety seek support as soon as possible.