With the late Thanksgiving (for those who celebrate), and early winter break, the holiday can seem even more intimidating and stressful than usual. The political state of the country can cause more disagreements than anyone would likely prefer. 

Although, as college students, some of us are naturally younger than the other adults around us – we are also deserving of respect. We do not deserve to be attacked, insulted or made the butt of jokes just because we’re different or have different beliefs from our family members or friends.

The practice of keeping boundaries is one which may come easier to some than others. As a naturally more introverted and reserved person, I find that it is rather easy for boundaries to dissipate around people who have formerly disrespected me. 

During winter break, it is just as important for you to feel as loved and respected around loved ones as you would feel any other day. If preserving this sense of love means not seeing your family during the holiday season, then that is perfectly okay. 

The simple fact that you are related by blood to a person does not mean you owe them your time. 

Even if political beliefs are put aside, there may be certain subjects that you are not okay with discussing with family. Even if family members do not seem to understand, be firm. It is so important to keep repeating your boundaries in order to stick up for yourself. If your family is one to make comments regarding your eating habits, relationship status or amount of socialization you decide to participate in; you can always say these comments make you uncomfortable. 

As someone who grew up with a cousin whose viewpoints on the world were constantly met with eyerolls, I understand the frustration that being disregarded can cause. This cousin is around 10 years older than I am, and was a 21 year-old when my family constantly rolled their eyes at them. Being in a similar age bracket today, it’s depressing knowing that my cousin was dismissed so quickly. 

All in all, going home can be a triggering time for several reasons. Having a back-up plan and knowing how to disengage or decompress after any kind of gathering is beneficial. 

If you are staying on-campus for the holiday season, I recommend attending a student organization Friendsgiving or hosting one of your own if other peers are staying in the city. 

The overwhelming urge to return to habits which no longer serve you can also cause more long-lasting harm than the confines of the 3-4 weeks of winter break. 

This can also be a time to go no-contact with your family altogether. If a person does not respect you, upholding that relationship may not be worth the emotional and mental health sacrifice. 

For many of us post-election, simply surviving is an act of resistance. The “Point Park Bubble” will be here for you in January. 

If you need help during the holiday season, please contact the Resolve crisis services or the suicide hotline 988.