We’ve made it to November, which means (cue the Mariah Carey and Bing Crosby) it’s the holiday season! While this time can bring a lot of joy, it can also bring stress, especially at family gatherings. Sure, you love your friends and family, but some of the conversations that come up at these yearly events can be less than comfortable – your love life, your job, or the most divisive topic: politics. And it goes both ways! “Why do my parents keep badgering me about this?” or “Why won’t my kid get on the right track?” or even “I really don’t want anyone to ask me about my career/love life, I don’t have anything I’m proud of to say.”

Don’t worry, we all go through it at one point or another. As a mental health therapist, I talk with my clients about how to best handle these moments, and while every situation is different, there are some universal things you can do to make life a little easier.

It’s easy to idealize holiday gatherings. Keep your expectations in check by reminding yourself that perfection is unattainable and focus instead on enjoying each moment as it unfolds.

 

Reflect on your needs and be proactive about communicating them. Whether it comes to protecting your time or fielding uncomfortable questions from family members, practice saying “no” in whatever way feels comfortable to you.

While the holidays can be joyful, they can also be tinged with grief, sadness, apprehension, and stress. Take time to check in with yourself and be proactive about addressing any feelings that may be bubbling beneath the surface.

Maintain your routines and healthy habits to the extent you can, prioritize sleep, and connect with people who fill your cup. If you find yourself needing or wanting additional support, therapy is a safe, unbiased space to process any difficult experiences that leave you feeling stuck or unfulfilled.