Listen, we get it.
Having your family trigger your anxiety is a very common problem.
Even small things can beanxiety triggers.
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Every family has their own unique dynamics.
If some of these dynamics feel emotionally upsetting or painful, that can lead to anxiety.
Poor Communication
Communication is key.
This means that, often, family members can unknowingly trigger your anxiety.
Genetic Predisposition and Anxiety
Anxiety can be hereditary, especially if you experienceanxiety symptomsat a young age.
Similarly, your family dynamics might regress as well.
Feeling regressed can also affect your decision-making when youre with your family.
and quickly changing the subject.
Decide what you’re able to tolerate and what you cant, and treat those decisions with respect.
Honor your feelings and allow yourself to extricate yourself from the situation.
Try bringing the subject up gently, using plenty of I statements.
You could say:
Your family might not know how you are feeling unless you tell them.
This can be a great step towards mitigating your family-induced anxiety.
Talking in individual therapy about your anxiety triggers as they relate to your family can be especially helpful.
In spite of this, you might still work on your relationships and anxiety triggers inindividual therapy.
Final Thoughts
Family can trigger anxiety, no doubt about it.
doi:10.4088/PCC.14f01761
American Psychological Association.
(n.d.).How psychologists help with anxiety disorders.
2022 Jan;48(1):107-128. doi:10.1111/jmft.12548
