The Rising Cost of Holiday Shopping: Gift Fatigue and Increased Spending

Americans are spending record amounts on holiday shopping, but many are experiencing gift fatigue and stress. The pressure to buy gifts for everyone, including people they don't particularly like, has led to a sense of overwhelm. The abundance of gift guides and discounts from retailers only adds to the frenzy. A survey shows that a majority of Americans are worried about affording holiday gifts. The author questions the need for excessive gift-giving and suggests alternative ways to celebrate the season, such as making charitable donations.