How can I get out of spending Christmas with my family?

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “Christmas carries a strong cultural expectation of togetherness, yet many people feel conflicted about attending family gatherings,” says chartered psychologist Dr Louise Goddard-Crawley, a member of the British Psychological Society. “Whether due to difficult relationships, personal needs, or stress, the pressure to conform to these social norms can lead to significant anxiety or emotional distress.” Here, Goddard-Crawley, who has a special interest in relational psychology and attachments, suggests the best ways to gently avoid a dreaded family Christmas celebration… Be honest if you can If your family dynamic is one where open dialogue is possible, being honest about not wanting to attend the Christmas celebration can sometimes lead to greater understanding, says Goddard-Crawley. “Offering to attend Boxing Day lunch instead of the full-day Christmas celebration, for instance, may alleviate pressure while still honouring the family relationship.” She says such a compromise can also reduce any guilty feelings you may have about missing family Christmas celebrations. I’m looking forward to spending some quiet time on Christmas Day, but I’d love to catch up with the family at a less busy time, perhaps for a meal in the New Year.” 7.