One of the simplest ways to ease year-end stress is to maintain workplace routine as much as possible.(Photo: Shutterstock)

The holiday season is filled with spending time with loved ones, delicious food and celebrations. However, the pressure to find a work-life balance, coupled with year-end deadlines, can also make this one of the most stressful times of year for many people. One in five U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, and another 64 percent of people with mental illness report the holidays exacerbate their condition, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

It's important to remember that many employees will be coping with additional obstacles during this busy time. Luckily, there are several steps employers can take to serve as a mental health resource and keep employees happy and productive as we make it through the year's final stretch.

Set realistic business expectations and encourage self-care

Holiday preparations, business deadlines, and last-minute requests create the perfect storm for employees to feel overwhelmed and stressed toward the end of the year. However, employers can help make responsibilities manageable by setting realistic expectations for employees and offering their support when possible.