I usually get on well with my family but I've had a difficult time recently and am suffering from stress.

I'm dreading visiting them in the holidays - how can I make things easier?

l Stress and anxiety are common during holiday periods or get togethers. Reassure yourself that these feelings are normal.

Gatherings are often stressful for people so avoid known triggers. If someone brings up a touchy topic quickly move on to talk about something else

Try and include some exercise in the day. If you and your family go out for a walk after lunch you are less likely to sit round the table arguing

Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and other drugs. These will not solve any problems and cause more in the long run

Use relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or focusing on your breath to cope with anxiety or tension

If you are feeling overly anxious call Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87.

My 18-year-old daughter goes to a lot of parties. I'm worried about her drink being spiked - how can she avoid this?

l Drink spiking is when mind-altering substances, such as drugs or alcohol, are added to your drink without you knowing. It is illegal, even if an attack or assault has not been carried out. It can result in a maximum of 10 years in prison.

Your daughter should keep her drink in her hand, and hold her thumb over the opening if drinking from a bottle

Keep an eye on friends' drinks and do not leave a drink unattended at any time, even while you are in the toilet. Never accept a drink from anyone you do not know or trust and do not share or exchange drinks, or drink leftover drinks

When possible, drink from a bottle rather than a glass because it is more difficult to spike a drink in a bottle

If out on a date with someone who you do not know, tell a friend or relative where you will be and when you will be back,

Do not give away too much information to anyone you have just met, such as your address and remember that if you have already been drinking, you will be more vulnerable.

If your daughter believes that her drink, or one of her friend's drinks has been spiked she should immediately inform the manager of the premises she is in, and ask them to call the police.

What is irritable hip?

l Irritable hip is the inflammation of the membrane covering the hip joint. It is the most common cause of hip pain in young children. A child with irritable hip will have pain and restricted movement in their hip joint. The pain can also spread to the thigh, groin and knee areas. This makes standing and walking difficult and causes the child to limp. Usually, only one hip is affected. The cause is unknown, but it often follows either a viral infection or injury. It usually goes away after one to two weeks. Complete rest is usually all that is needed.