CHRISTMAS is known as the season of goodwill and tis the season to be jolly according to the well-known festive tunes.

But the reality for many people is that the period is a tough time with stresses over money, family and relationships.

Many charities such as the Samaritans and Relate say that they receive a huge increase in calls throughout the Christmas period, from people who are having a tough time.

The Samaritans in East Lancashire can receive more than 300 calls a day over Christmas and New Year as well as text messages and emails.

Dominic Rudd, chief executive of the Samaritans said that Christmas can amplify everyday problems.

He said: "No one is immune to feeling lonely.

"We can be surrounded by family and friends and still feel the need to speak to someone who doesn't know us.

"People can contact Samaritans about a variety of emotional issues and the sooner you make contact the better, so that emotional worries don't spiral into worse situations."

Mr Rudd said that with parties to attend, festive family dinners to organise, and homes to decorate, Christmas is often a period when people are preoccupied with their own plans.

For others, the festive period can be a stressful and emotionally charged time and a harsh reminder of feelings of loneliness and isolation.

He said: "These feelings can affect anyone, from the organised mother stressing over the turkey to an elderly person living alone, to the migrant workers separated from their families, or those grieving over the death of a loved one."

There are various reasons why people call the Samaritans during the "season of goodwill", although most believe the organisation is only there to deal with those contemplating suicide.

The UK charity often deals with calls for help from those thinking of taking their own life but also people who just need someone to talk to.

In the current climate, money has become one of the main contributing factors to experiencing higher stress levels during Christmas and New Year.

And if you have a large family the financial burden of Christmas can be daunting.

The estimated spend for this Christmas in the UK is £30-£50billion.

That means the average amount spent per person on the festive season is approximately £700, with nearly half of that being spent on gifts alone.

Martin Lewis, TV money-lending expert said: "Christmas is just one day, and it's far more important to be financially stable throughout the New Year.

"Don't allow commercial pressures to drive you into debt.

"It will leave those with limited cash feeling worried that they can't give their family every last dream present.

"The Samaritans can help you rationalise your thoughts and feelings by listening to you, putting you in control by offering a completely confidential, non-judgemental service."

"Festive Stress Disorder" is on the rise according to according to mental-health charity MIND.

A spokesman said: "In the last three years the proportion of people suffering Festive Stress Disorder has almost doubled.

"Time with the in-laws, pressure to create the perfect festive feast and a fear of choosing the wrong gifts makes Christmas a nerve-racking time for many."

Relate, the UK's largest relationship counselling service is also busy at Christmas.

Counsellor Denise Knowles said: "Christmas can be a stressful time for couples and families, so don't worry if you find yourself bickering with your partner about who's going to write the gift tags.

"Consider making a few simple changes to the Christmas routine and remember to keep communicating with your partner so you both know what needs to be done."