Toxic family dynamics: How do you deal with it?
in Psychology & Therapy ·
Did you not run into these same issues in previous years, like during summer break?
Are you planning on living in a dorm again while you're in college?
My situation is pretty similar—I lived in a dorm during high school, and now I'm back in one for college too.
It’s honestly been such a struggle trying to readjust to living in such a tight-knit environment, especially with family.
It’s not that they’re bad people or anything, it’s just that we don't really have much to talk about.
Every year, it gets harder for me to head back and lose that sense of balance I managed to find while I was out in Chicago.
If the messiness is driving you crazy (totally get it, my family is the same way 😉), try changing things up a bit by cleaning—maybe start small with a kitchen cabinet or something. Sort everything out, show them how you organized it, and ask if they can keep it that way (it didn't work great for me, honestly, maybe halfway successful).
And definitely make sure your own room is organized—make it your own little sanctuary where everything is just right.
It's a total pipe dream to expect everyone to change just to suit your preferences, but try starting with the little things. And definitely make an effort to hang out more over the summer—get out there and socialize instead of just staying cooped up inside!
Are you planning on living in a dorm again while you're in college?
My situation is pretty similar—I lived in a dorm during high school, and now I'm back in one for college too.
It’s honestly been such a struggle trying to readjust to living in such a tight-knit environment, especially with family.
It’s not that they’re bad people or anything, it’s just that we don't really have much to talk about.
Every year, it gets harder for me to head back and lose that sense of balance I managed to find while I was out in Chicago.
If the messiness is driving you crazy (totally get it, my family is the same way 😉), try changing things up a bit by cleaning—maybe start small with a kitchen cabinet or something. Sort everything out, show them how you organized it, and ask if they can keep it that way (it didn't work great for me, honestly, maybe halfway successful).
And definitely make sure your own room is organized—make it your own little sanctuary where everything is just right.
It's a total pipe dream to expect everyone to change just to suit your preferences, but try starting with the little things. And definitely make an effort to hang out more over the summer—get out there and socialize instead of just staying cooped up inside!