1. Attitude

If you are already anticipating that a gathering will be stressful, your anxiety may get worse by the time the actual gathering begins

2. Have realistic expectations

Don’t expect people to change, when they have behaved in the same way for years.

3. Keep potentially upsetting topics off-limits

People bring up touchy subjects without thinking about how they might affect others. Plan to keep conversation conflict-free by avoiding potentially sensitive topics, or simply ask what’s new and take it from there.

4. The only you can control is your reaction

No one can force you to engage in a negative conversation.

5. Don’t drink too much

Stop before you mistake a small child for a trash can.

6. Gratitude

Take a time-out and think about all you have to be grateful for.

7. Tolerance

If nothing else, remember you only have to tolerate them for a little while.

8. Have a happy reminder

Whether that be a photograph, a text, or that you only have to be here another 3 hours 45 minutes and 16 seconds, let it bring you some joy.

9. Take a breather

Try to physically leave the situation if it becomes too much. If you can't, just take a deep breathe (or five).