If you're one of the millions of Americans who waited until the last minute to do your taxes, you're probably feeling more than a little stressed right now.

To make this year's tax time less "taxing" on you, UT Medical Group psychologist Dr. Renate Rosenthal offers these tips:

1. Set aside a block of time to do your taxes when you won't be interrupted with other chores or phone calls.

2. Allow enough time to get to where you can be "on a roll" and go on.

3. Pick a large table or other work area that is uncluttered and well-lit. A supportive chair will help ease back pain and encourage good posture.

4. Have the tools you need at hand: calculator, computer software (if doing taxes on the computer), pencils and erasers, pens, stapler, receipts and other documents, any necessary forms, etc.

5. Consider playing soft music in the background to help you relax.

6. Watch your breathing. We often hold our breath when we are uptight.

7. Take a 10-minute break at least once every hour to stretch and clear your head. Step outside for a breath of fresh air if possible.

8. Snack on something that will give you healthy energy, like trail mix, raisins, a piece of fruit, or some yogurt. Avoid salty snacks and carbonated or alcoholic beverages.

9. If you find yourself getting upset or frustrated, stop and breathe slowly for a few minutes, walk around some, or stretch out in a recliner.

10. Wait until the next morning to check your completed tax return. You'll be more alert and less stressed.

11. Plan something enjoyable to reward yourself after you're done. This will give you something positive to look forward to.

12. If you didn't have one, set up a filing system for next year's receipts.

If all else fails and you just can't meet April 15th deadline, you can always ask the IRS for an extension. You'll still have to estimate how much you owe the government and pay that amount up front, but the extension will give you some extra time to get the rest of your paperwork done.