10 Ways To Navigate Family Drama During the Holidays [Video]

The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration. But for many, it also comes with its fair share of family drama. Whether it’s old grudges resurfacing, clashing personalities, or just the stress of being in close quarters, navigating family dynamics during the holidays can be a challenge.

In fact, a 2015 survey conducted by Healthline, a consumer health information site based in San Francisco, found that 62% of respondents described their stress levels as “very or somewhat” elevated during the holidays, as reported by Harvard. Only 10% reported feeling no stress at all. Among the top holiday stressors listed by participants were the financial demands of the season and the complexities of negotiating interpersonal family dynamics, which can be a total headache.

But fear not—it’s possible to maintain your peace, keep your cool, and even enjoy the season with a little preparation and mindfulness. Here’s how to handle family drama and make your holiday gatherings as stress-free as possible.

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