THE festive season is meant to be filled with joy, love and laughter. But, in reality, it’s often a challenging and stressful time when emotions can run high. “For many people, there’s an expectation that Christmas should be perfect – all twinkly lights and festive fun,” says psychologist Dr Jessica Valentine from Brighton Wellness Centre.
“Yet, if you don’t see eye to eye with certain relatives, you’re not getting on with a family member’s partner or you’re worried about money, this can bring up all sorts of resentment.” Financial worries are set to be one of the biggest triggers for family arguments this year. Some 29% blame the cost of living crisis on fallouts during the festive season, according to Relate’s survey of more than 2,000 adults.
Read More on Fabulous Other causes of conflict include mental health (15%), expectations to create the perfect Christmas (12%) and pressure to socialise (12%). “You’re also more likely to reflect and look back on the past, which can be emotionally triggering,” says Jessica. While Christmas is a prime time for potential rows, especially after a few drinks, it doesn’t have to be this way – though it might be you that needs to be the bigger person.
The experts reveal how. . .
Most read in Relationships HOW TO...
DEFUSE TENSION A snappy comment here and a grunt there can build to a full-blown row. When you feel an argument brewing , defuse the situation fast. “If someone gets angry, try to stay calm and.
