Reuniting with family you have not seen for a while can be stressful for various reasons. Between their potential disapproval toward significant others, drinking habits, grades, or your career choice and your potential distaste for their racist remarks or ignorant comments about Syrian refugees, it can be hard to make it through the night without awkward silences or uncomfortable arguments. Here are some tips for how to make it through while minimizing the awkwardness:

1. Take bathroom breaks

If you're under fierce interrogation about your love life, having to pee can be the perfect excuse. You can hide in the restroom for about five minutes before anyone gets suspicious.

2. Use the buddy system

Find that cousin, aunt, or sibling that understands how ridiculous certain relatives can be. Cling to them. They can swoop in and rescue you from horrible conversations.

3. Use finals as an excuse to leave early

With finals on the horizon, having to leave early to study is not much of a stretch. Additionally, relatives will probably support your studies and accept this excuse.

4. Keep stuffing your face to avoid sarcastic remarks

Just keep eating. Spoon some potatoes in your mouth to avoid saying something you'll regret.

5. Find common ground

Try talking about that time Uncle Steve got drunk and danced on the pool table or that time Grandma's teeth fell out. Avoid polarizing topics by clinging to topics all parties agree are hilarious.

6. Remember you love these people

Remember that despite your differences, these people have been there for you your whole life and they are worth a lot more than politics.