12 Ways to Deal with Toxic Family Relationships Over Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends, but for some people, it can be a difficult time. If you are struggling with a toxic relationship with a family member, don’t worry – you’re not alone.
In this blog post, we will discuss 12 ways to deal with toxic family relationships over Thanksgiving.
But before we start, I’d like to wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. Now, onto the tips:
1. Have Realistic Expectations
The first tip is to have realistic expectations. This holiday is not going to be perfect, and that’s okay. If you go into it expecting everything to be perfect, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.
2. Avoid Conflict
The second tip is to avoid conflict. If there is someone in your family that you always butt heads with, try to avoid them as much as possible. If you can’t avoid them altogether, try to steer clear of controversial topics that are likely to cause arguments. You may also want to consider leaving the room if things start to get heated.
3. Focus on the Positive
The third tip is to focus on the positive. When you’re around toxic people, it’s easy to get caught up in their negativity. Instead, try to focus on the good things about your life and the relationships you do have that are healthy and supportive. This will help you to keep things in perspective and enjoy the holiday more.
4. Take a Break
The fourth tip is to take a break. If things start to get too overwhelming, don’t be afraid to step away for a little while. Go for a walk, call a friend, or do something that will help you relax and de-stress.
5. Create Boundaries
The fifth tip is to create boundaries. It’s important to set boundaries with toxic family members, especially if they are disrespectful or abusive. If you don’t feel comfortable discussing certain topics, make it clear that those topics are off-limits. You may also want to consider limiting the amount of time you spend with them.
6. Don’t Engage in Gossip
The sixth tip is to avoid gossip. Gossiping can be a way for toxic family members to try to control and manipulate you. It can also be damaging to relationships. If you don’t want to get involved in gossip, make it clear that you’re not interested and change the subject.
7. Be Assertive
The seventh tip is to be assertive. If someone in your family is making you feel uncomfortable, it’s important to speak up and tell them how you feel. This can be difficult, but if you won’t stand up for yourself – who will?
8. Don’t Take the Bait
The eighth tip is to avoid taking the bait. If someone in your family is trying to start an argument, walk away or change the subject. This will diffuse the situation and prevent a fight from happening.
9. Avoid Alcohol
The ninth tip is to avoid alcohol. Alcohol can make it easier for people to say and do things they wouldn’t normally say or do. If you’re around family members who are prone to conflict, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether. This will help you to stay in control of your emotions.
10. Know Your Triggers
The tenth tip is to know your triggers. If there are certain things that trigger negative emotions, try to avoid them. This might mean leaving the room when someone starts talking about a controversial topic, or it might mean avoiding certain people altogether.
11. Have an exit strategy
The eleventh tip is to create an agreed-upon exit strategy with your spouse or significant other, which includes the “we’re outta here” signal. Have everything planned to pack up and make a graceful exit, including meal and hotel options if out-of-town travel is required.
12. Seek Support
The twelth and final tip is to seek support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to a friend or a professional. They can provide you with support and help you to develop healthy coping mechanisms.
As a licensed clinician and Board Certified Holistic Registered Nurse with various certifications in energy healing modalities, including spiritual care, I help my clients to address and overcome their underlying mental, emotional, energetic, and spiritual needs so that they may have more peace and security in their everyday lives.
If you are interested in seeking professional help and in healing holistically, please visit my website to learn more about how I can help you feel better. And remember – you are not alone in dealing with toxic family members.
Thanksgiving can be a difficult time for many people who have toxic family relationships. But it’s important to remember that you have the power to choose how you react to these relationships. By using the tips above, you can survive Thanksgiving and even enjoy it.
Happy Thanksgiving!
