So Thanksgiving is a week away and I’m seeing a lot of anxiety around it. I remember a year ago patients expressing anxiety over whether or not to be with friends and family. There was anxiety over disagreements on how Thanksgiving should be held with regards to COVID-19. For example, I’d hear, “I’m not comfortable being around family inside, but my spouse does not care.” (When spouses do not agree is another topic I will cover!) 

This seems to be something that is coming up again this year. Rather now, I’m seeing anxiety over whether or not one should go somewhere or bring their children to a family or friend’s home where people are not vaccinated.

So what do I do?

This is my take on it. Whether you are hosting Thanksgiving or going to another’s home, you ABSOLUTELY have the right to speak up about your concerns AND do what you believe is best for you. This involves open communication about what you are comfortable with! 

For example, let’s say Julie is hosting Thanksgiving inside, and she is not comfortable with unvaccinated people in her home. Julie can request that those coming are vaccinated, and those not comfortable with/cannot receive the vaccine get tested before they come. (Side note: While I am not a medical doctor, remember that testing only captures the moment you are getting tested. If you get the test and then go out in public for several days, those test results may no longer be accurate. Please consult with your medical doctor regarding this.)

Now, let’s say Julie is going to someone else’s home that does not share her views regarding COVID-19. Maybe you are thinking, “It’s not Julie’s home. She should have no say I’m it!” Well, i am going to disagree with you on that one. Julie CAN request that the host consider what Julie feels comfortable with. If the host is not willing to make changes to make Julie comfortable, then Julie can decide to stay home, join in virtually, show up in masks, eat in a separate room, etc. I think you get the point. Julie can only control Julie.

It is okay to be uncomfortable

I totally get this is a very uncomfortable topic to talk about, especially for those that deal with anxiety. However, I think It is a very important one. The more you practice this, the easier it gets. It is also important that these expectations are discussed BEFORE Thanksgiving and not when everyone shows up. Knowing there is a plan in place that everyone has agreed upon can help reduce anxiety on Thanksgiving Day.

What’s next?

Next up… how to deal with anxiety around non-COVID related issues AND when partners do not agree on Thanksgiving.

Stay tuned!