Coping with Family Feuds at Christmas

by | Christmas, Drug and Alcohol, Healthy Living, Mental Health, Seasonal Health, Wellness

Christmas is a time when all our differences come crashing together over dinners and drinks and activities.

The celebration season brings family and friends together who haven’t seen each other in a long time, but it can also re-ignite old arguments and feelings. Whether it’s discussing politics, religion or difference in lifestyle it can be a stressful time of the year. It may make you feel like you are slotting back into your old role and start getting treated like a child rather then an adult.

Tips on how to cope and keep the peace when you are visiting home for the holidays

Call a few days before and see what you can do to help.

Don’t just turn up a few days before and try and take over. Know who is in charge and be willing to help. If your dietary requirements have changed let the person cooking know well in advance and be considerate in your own planing. 

Alcohol consumption is another thing to consider, by drinking moderately and being aware of how much you’ve had you can ensure a more pleasant and enjoyable night.

Be Aware: Know what could trigger resentments and don’t bring up subjects that could reignite old arguments.

Be Helpful: be ready to help if it is needed,, try asking in advance what you can do to help and if there is anything specific you can do do or bring over.

Be Kind: Family is family, remember to be kind and rise above whatever someone might say that annoys you. 

Be Flexible: With so many different people together, everyone will not always agree with each other in what activities to do or what television programs to watch. Be kind and be flexible. You can always catch up on things later.