How to Survive Family Holidays, No Matter How Uncomfortable

Dr. Wes Crenshaw, Phd ABPP, a Kansas Licensed Psychologist and Certified in Couples and Family Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology says while real life family drama can be funny, they can also be a burden during the holidays.

1) The problem with holidays: They put people who are supposed to know each other well, but don’t really, into situations that require comfort, familiarity and tolerance.

2) Don’t come with expectations for the perfect dinner or gift exchange.

3) Don’t try and solve family problems.

4) Leave politics at home.

5) Watch the drinking. Use the office party rule, which is this: if you must go to an office party and the research says you SHOULD NOT, then keep your drinking to 1-2 and nurse them the whole night. Same with family gatherings. Alcohol leads people to accidentally slip and say something they may regret later.

Wes Crenshaw, PhD ABPP
Family Psychological Services, LLC
2601 W 6th ST STE A
Lawrence, KS 66049-4319
Phone: 785-371-1414
Email: wescrenshawphd@fpskansas.com
Follow him on Twitter: @wescrenshawphd