
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: We typically host several family members and their children in our home for a visit each December. But due to COVID-19 we have decided to avoid social encounters. How can I tell my siblings that they and their children can't come without creating a rift? Also, do you have any advice on politely declining holiday invitations?
ANSWER: The holidays can be a stressful time for many. Although in the past the holiday season may have included trips to crowded shopping malls; travel to visit family; and multiple gatherings with co-workers, neighbors and friends to eat, drink and be merry, this year is different amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Due to COVID-19, many of the things that people ordinarily do this time of year are not a good idea from a public health standpoint. To reduce the community spread of COVID-19, it is recommended that everyone continue to use masks, exercise proper hand hygiene, limit travel, avoid congregating in groups, and maintain appropriate social distancing.
Taking these actions will reduce the risk for COVID-19 transmission. However, doing so also may increase the risk of conflict for some, especially when family members and friends do not agree on the seriousness of the pandemic.
Here are some tips to consider for minimizing holiday stress when respectfully having these conversations during the holidays:
As you find new ways to navigate the holiday season, try to remain positive. Eventually, everyone will be able to get back together to celebrate the season with the usual traditions, but maybe some new traditions will have been learned along the way. — Olivia Bogucki, Ph.D., Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
Learn more about: Tracking and trending COVID-19
Information in this post was accurate at the time of its posting. Due to the fluid nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientific understanding, along with guidelines and recommendations, may have changed since the original publication date.
For more information and all your COVID-19 coverage, go to the Mayo Clinic News Network and mayoclinic.org.
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