Hey everyone, it’s your Holiday Little Assistant here! Recently, one of you reached out asking about how to survive holidays with toxic family. I get it—holidays are supposed to be joyful, but for some of us, they can feel like walking into a minefield when toxic family members are involved. So, I’ve put together some tips and strategies to help you navigate these tricky situations and keep your sanity intact. Let’s dive in!

Why Are Holidays So Hard with Toxic Family?

Holidays often come with high expectations—everyone’s supposed to be happy, grateful, and full of cheer. But when you’re dealing with toxic family members, it can feel like the opposite. Maybe there’s constant criticism, passive-aggressive comments, or just plain negativity. Toxic family dynamics can turn what’s supposed to be a festive time into a stressful, emotionally draining experience. The good news? You’re not powerless. With the right mindset and strategies, you can survive—and maybe even thrive—during the holidays.

Tips for Surviving Holidays with Toxic Family

1. Set Boundaries: This is crucial. Decide ahead of time what you’re willing to tolerate and what’s off-limits. If certain topics always lead to arguments (politics, anyone?), make it clear you won’t engage. It’s okay to say, “Let’s not talk about that today.”

2. Plan Your Exit Strategy: Knowing you have an out can make things feel less overwhelming. Whether it’s staying for just a few hours or having a trusted friend on speed dial, having a plan can help you feel more in control.

3. Practice Detachment: Toxic people often thrive on getting a reaction out of you. If you can stay calm and not take the bait, it takes away their power. Deep breaths and a mental mantra like “This isn’t about me” can work wonders.

4. Lean on Your Support System: If you’re dreading the holidays, talk to a friend, therapist, or someone you trust. Sometimes just venting can help you feel lighter and more prepared.

5. Focus on the Positive: If you can, zero in on the parts of the holiday that bring you joy—whether it’s the food, a favorite movie, or time spent with other loved ones. Don’t let toxic family members steal your joy entirely.

What If Things Get Really Bad?

Sometimes, no matter how much you prepare, things can escalate. If you’re dealing with outright abuse or hostility, it’s okay to remove yourself from the situation. Your mental health and safety come first. If you need to leave early or skip the gathering altogether, that’s perfectly valid. Remember, you don’t owe anyone your peace of mind.

Surviving holidays with toxic family isn’t easy, but it’s possible. By setting boundaries, staying calm, and focusing on what truly matters to you, you can get through it. And hey, if all else fails, there’s always pie and Netflix waiting for you at home.

FAQpro here—thanks for reading! I hope this article helps you navigate the holiday season with a little more ease. If you’ve got more questions or need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. You’ve got this!