Family is the one thing we can’t live without. Family gatherings bring back nostalgic feelings and joy.
On the other hand, they can cause a lot of stress and anxiety, especially when it comes to triggering family members.
Mastering family dynamics is not easy; however, Southern Sky has some practical suggestions for tackling that issue. Keep reading to find out how you can manage this!
Why Family Can Be So Triggering
There is something peculiar about relationships in families.
Conflicts between them have far-reaching consequences because of historical baggage, expectations, and emotional investment. Look at why your relatives might be so triggering:
- Shared History: Family reunions can bring back old grievances.
- High Expectations: We are usually held to a higher standard by our families which may lead to feelings of disappointment or inadequacy.
- Emotional Intensity: When we fight with our kin, love, and bonds make everything seem much worse.
Current Statistics on Family Conflicts
Knowing that family conflicts are widespread can be comforting. You are not alone in dealing with these situations.
According to a 2023 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), six out of ten adults experienced considerable stress due to their families during holiday periods.
Pew Research Center’s study also found that only 45 percent percent of people felt comfortable talking with their relatives about personal matters indicating general discomfort during such conversations.
Strategies to Manage Triggering Family
Dealing with triggering family members entails patience, empathy as well as strategic approaches. Use these tips when navigating through troubled waters:
Establish Boundaries
Boundaries are key to mental health stability as they set limits between what is acceptable and what is not. Here’s how you should go about setting boundaries:
- Communicate Clearly: Tell your relatives what subjects or behaviors should never be entertained.
- Be Consistent: Always abide by your rules so as not to confuse anyone involved.
- Stay Firm: Never back down or apologize for the boundaries you set.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can help you stay rooted during difficult interactions. To be calm and centered, use techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and grounding.
Seek Professional Support
Dealing with triggering family members sometimes requires external support.
Therapists and counselors will guide you through it and teach you coping mechanisms that will enable you to deal with your unique situation.
Southern Sky Recovery has different types of therapeutic services:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Family Therapy
- Individual Therapy
Use Humor and Positivity
Humor can serve as an excellent coping mechanism. A positive attitude and some light-hearted jokes can help ease tension in a room.
Limit Your Exposure
If certain family members really get under your skin, don’t hesitate to limit your interactions with them.
You might reduce your presence during family occasions or even avoid them entirely if necessary for your mental health.
Focus on Self-Care
When family matters start to stress you out, it’s crucial to take care of yourself to prevent it from overwhelming you.
Doing things you love, like hanging out with friends, diving into a good book, or getting active with regular exercise, can really help lift your spirits.
Develop a Support Network
Talking to someone outside your family can be incredibly healing.
Joining groups like Families Anonymous gives you a space to share your struggles with others who understand what it’s like to deal with family-related emotional turmoil.
It’s also comforting to have friends to turn to when everything around you feels overwhelming.
Effective Communication Techniques
Many conflicts can be avoided through proper communication skills that include certain strategies that improve interactions between one and the other person, especially where family members are concerned.
I Statements
Do not rely solely on “I” statements when expressing your feelings to avoid sounding accusatory and make your communication more human.
For instance, instead of saying, “When you criticize my choices, I feel upset,” explore different ways to convey your emotions and concerns.
Stay Calm
Ensure that regardless of the intensity of the conversation, you maintain a calm tone throughout.
Respect Differences
It is essential to understand that different people have different opinions, and sometimes they will not always agree.
When to Seek Help
Sometimes despite our best efforts, we end up in conflicts with our family members and this can take a toll on our mental health.
If interactions with your family are causing significant distress, it’s important to seek professional help.
Southern Sky Recovery offers several treatment options, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and outpatient care levels.
Our team consists of compassionate individuals dedicated to helping you navigate these difficulties.
Family Drama? Let’s Talk!
Although it may be difficult dealing with triggering family members, just remember that Southern Sky Recovery is here to offer all the support needed.
Our treatment programs are designed for the whole family and consider individual needs.
Some programs offered include family therapy, individual therapy, and DBT or CBT, which are aimed at assisting clients in restoring their interpersonal connections to normalcy and living happier lives.
Have you ever experienced serious moments of drama in your home? Contact Southern Sky Recovery now!
