All families are complicated and each one has their own unique way of navigating through life. From mothers and fathers to siblings and children, families form a close bond that often substitutes as a social support system for life.

However, no family is without its own set of misunderstandings and disagreements. Some can quickly be resolved with a little extra communication, but other conflicts can create resentment that can become overwhelming and irreparable if not dealt with correctly.

Whether you’re a parent that’s having trouble communicating with your teenage son or daughter or trying to avoid unnecessary conflicts with your new in-laws, having the right support systems in place can bring clarity and calmness to a situation that could become uncomfortable for everyone involved.

Turbulent family relationships and wellbeing

We’ve all been witnesses to or active participants in a family argument at one point or another. It’s a situation where everyone’s emotions are running high and can negatively impact those around you.

Perhaps one of the most researched areas is how parental arguments affect a child’s mental health. Studies show that children often blame themselves for their parent’s arguments which can leave a lasting impression that can alter the way they view relationships as children and adults.

Turbulent family relationships don’t just affect children. It can create stress and anxiety, especially around family or holiday events where everyone comes together. Some even develop trouble sleeping or focusing as a result of the anxiety they face.

Situations such as these are unavoidable—even in the healthiest of family and relationship dynamics. This is why getting the support you need can help you navigate through these difficult times while also developing a sense of empathy and understanding for all parties involved.

Finding the support you need

Everyone reacts to conflict differently. Similarly, the support they need will also vary. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that you can create a support system around you that understands and empathises with you.

Speak to a professional

Speaking to a therapist or a counsellor can do wonders for your wellbeing, sadly it’s still something that many people struggle with accepting or discussing. 

Sometimes your family and relationship issues can make other areas of your life difficult to manage, including your career. Speaking to a professional can not only help you get the answers you’re looking for, but it can also help you see things from a different perspective. 

You can find ways to cope with volatile situations and even consider going to family or couples counselling to make sure that everything is out in the open and can be resolved in a much healthier way.

Confide in a group of close friends or confidants

Professional help isn’t something that works for everyone, but if it isn’t for you that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. While your family and partners are an important support system, they’re not the only ones that you can confide in.

Being part of a close group of friends that you trust and feel emotionally safe around can also give you a way to speak to the people who understand you the most. As we mentioned earlier, not all family and relationship issues are serious enough to call for severe interventions. Sometimes you just need to vent and talk to someone that knows you—whether this is a friend, a colleague at work, or a support group.

Keep a journal and maintain it

Research shows that journaling is a good way to counteract a lot of the negative effects of anxiety, depression, and stress.

While a lot of support systems involve speaking to others who may be experiencing similar emotions or situations, or even seeking professional help, you may be someone who finds a sense of calm and self-reflection by putting pen to paper. Keeping a record of your emotions and pouring your heart out in a journal is something that many people do.

The great thing about this is that you don’t have to wait until you run into an issue to start writing. You can keep a daily journal or even a weekly one where you reveal your innermost thoughts in a safe and non-judgmental space.

It’s also a great way to focus on the positives in your life rather than only the negative. Sometimes a single good experience can counteract the effects of all the negative thoughts dominating your mind.

Final thoughts on navigating family and relationship issues from Kinhub

Everyone needs a sense of belonging. A place that we fit into without fear of judgement. This is why families and relationships are an integral part of our lives.

You know your family and the relationships you’ve built better than anyone else. Take time to identify any situations that may trigger negative feelings and responses from those closest to you and think of ways to have peaceful interactions instead of arguments that can harm your relationships.

Whether you want to speak to a professional or surround yourself with a group of people that you can be vulnerable around, choose the support system that can help you navigate the complex relationships in your life.