Volume 3: December 25, 2022
Written/Edited by: Fidha
Why are family holiday celebrations so polarizing?
Family gatherings tend to start off alright, but as the night goes on, always lead to arguing, miscommunication, and general sense of disagreement. There are plenty of reasons that this may happen within your family and others: people are often trying to be considerate and resentful of others because they overextended themselves, there is a lot of pressure to be a "picture perfect" family that it simply becomes toxic, and, the most simple explanation, people are generally more likely to argue than they are to get along simply because we do not see each other so often, and the changes that occur in the time we do not see each other may be uncomfortable.
If you feel that you are the only person who dislikes family gatherings, you are mistaken; it is normal to dislike an environment of mistrust and disrespect. If you find yourself in one of these gatherings this winter, try to follow our checklist and remember that it is okay to isolate yourself and take time to prioritize your mental health before pleasing others. You can do it!
A Checklist for the Holidays:
Even though it may be difficult, try your best to understand the circumstances of others and treat everyone with as much respect as you can.
Remember your limits and ask of others to respect these boundaries. This includes physical, emotional, and mental limits. If you need to, isolate yourself for the time being.
Try your best to avoid comparison. Family gatherings are a breeding ground for comparison, but it is important to remember that you are your primary competitor; you are trying to better then your current self, not your family members or friends.
Remember that you are allowed to eat, and that it's normal to crave more food during the winter season due to biological and evolutionary principals. You are not unworthy of food, even if someone tells you that you are.
Take time to write your gratitude; even though it may be one of the worst periods in your life, look for at least one thing that gives you hope and write down somewhere.
Tell somebody you love them. Even if you are not that close to them as you once were.
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