- Survival tip: Despite your mum shooting you daggers; a healthy debate is what he’s craving and if it gets you out of the washing up it’s worth at least attempting to educate him.
The grumpy grandad
Don’t be fooled by the corduroy trousers and walking stick, he might seem harmless, but of all the dinner guests the impossible to please grandad is the one most likely to be the straw that breaks your poor mother’s back.
The turkey’s too dry, his chair’s too low, the stuffing isn’t like the one she made last year and his dominance over the TV volume means conversation is all but impossible. His blistering review of your mum’s cooking has left her seething in the kitchen and everyone’s counting down the hours until he goes home.
- Survival tip: Despite how it may seem, your grumpy grandad does want to be there, he just doesn’t get out much anymore. Rather than driving him home early to see the evening in alone, indulge him in some conversation about his youth, it’s sure to crack a smile.
The prodigal sibling
Despite being absent all other 364 days of the year, their surprise arrival is all your mum can talk about.
Paraded around like an Antique’s Roadshow collectible, your mum can’t stop rubbing their arm and exclaiming how pleased she is to see them, regardless of the fact the only present they brought her is a pile of dirty washing.
Jokes on them though because while everyone is asking about their new job in crypto currency, you know they’re currently unemployed and will be asking you for a tenner to go down the pub with their mates later.
- Survival tip: As tempting as it is to out your sibling, let your mum have this one. Trust me. It’s not worth it.
Your savage nan
One minute she’s watching you open the comb she bought from the chemist round the corner (price tag still on), the next she’s telling you that you’ve “put on a few pounds”.
The insults about your appearance come from nowhere and always catch you off guard, normally just when you’re reaching for a green triangle Quality Street.
- Survival tip: As much as they sting, do not let your savage nan and her throw away comments ruin your Christmas and make you cry. Have your Pinterest board of inspirational quotes on hand to remind you that there’s more to life than what you weigh and breathe a sigh of relief that our generation is here to smash diet culture.
Your sister’s new political partner
If your Christmas already felt like a chess scene from The Queen’s Gambit, wait until your sister’s new Reddit obsessed partner turns up and meets your UN PC uncle mid Potato head rant.
You can say bye, bye to your healthy debate and hello to all war no peace as the two battle it out over capitalism, The Daily Mail and J.K. Rowling.
Do not even think about interrupting unless you too have watched hours of Hasan Piker’s Twitch Streams.
- Survival tip: Encourage your sister to visit their family on Christmas day instead and make sure your uncle isn’t around for boxing day.
Tips on dealing with stressful Christmas family gatherings
Dr Bryony Henderson, lead GP at online health service Livi, says: “Consider how you want to spend your time. Just because you may feel obliged to be extra sociable, it doesn’t mean you have to spend time with absolutely everyone you know and love.
“If you’re worried about family pressure or uncomfortable situations, try putting boundaries in place. Families can be invasive or cast shame or guilt. You don’t have to justify your decision on how you spend your time. Allow yourself to be honest and try to communicate that.”
