During the holidays, family expectations can be a challenge to manage.  We all wish and hope that our family is as synergized  and drama free as we imagine and we expect that our spouses, partners ,and kids can assimilate as smoothly as possible with their grandparents, cousins and in-laws.  But what if they don’t or worse, what if our family gets chaotic?  

The holidays can be overwhelming in general, even more so if you are recovering from trauma. Here are some simple ways you can organize or engage in family get-togethers while being mindful of your boundaries that can help in healing your trauma.

A Canadian study conducted through the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine researched the correlation between family dinners, communication and mental health in 26,069 adolescents. They found a positive association between the frequency of family dinners and emotional wellbeing, prosocial behavior and life satisfaction.