With the holiday season still in full swing, not everyone is celebrating coming home for the holidays. There are many reasons why one may feel anxious during the holidays. Some family members are downright toxic and can ruin what is a good experience. Other times, you worry about getting into political fights. This can cause some anxiety and ruin your holiday experience. Here are some ways you can treat the anxiety.
Solve the Problem
If your anxiety is due to concerns about certain family members, your best move is to try to address the concerns. Tell your family, preferably someone who is more neutral about the relationship between you and the toxic family member, about your problem. This may help you find a solution.
Sometimes, the best bet is to be diplomatic about it and establish boundaries. Tell your family members that there are certain subjects or words that you don’t want to hear or discuss. Some family members don’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable, and you have to be the one who has to tell them that some of their actions or words make you feel unwanted.
However, we know that some people just don’t listen or understand. In that case, here are some other ways to deal with anxiety.
Get Your Mind Off It
The best way to reduce anxiety is to get your mind off it. Go exercise. Decorate your own home with holiday cheer. Spend time with other family members. We know, it’s hard to get your mind off something you’re worrying about, but it does help.
Remember, You’re Not Obligated to See Anyone
If you’re a grown adult who is independent, you have no obligation to see anyone if they make you feel uncomfortable. Sure, they’re your family, but if they’re toxic, make you feel unwanted, and don’t listen to you when you express your concerns, then you’re in your full right to cut them off or minimize your appearance.
If you do want to go see your family, leave if things get too bad. You can be upfront and explain why you’re leaving, or think of an excuse to bail early.
This isn’t to say you shouldn’t talk to your family at all, but if gatherings make you feel uncomfortable and no one is respecting your boundaries, then you shouldn’t have to stay for very long.
Seek Counseling for Your Family
Sometimes, your family is fixable, but you may not be reaching them. It’s okay; you’re probably not an expert on human psychology. Do you know who is, though? A counselor. There is no shame in seeking therapy for your family. This doesn’t mean your family is broken, but it does mean that you all are willing to set aside your differences and be better people as a result.
Anxiety over family is tough to handle, but by following these rules, you can make the anxiety much easier. Have a happy holiday.
Author bio:- Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
