These things do not go together, but are a reality for many…

Divorce situations at Christmas time add another level of stress to an already stressful time. Forced family togetherness can bring out short tempers and hard feelings. Games, one-upmanship and fake platitudes are an easy trap to fall into. So, what can you do? Don’t.

Make Christmas about something bigger than the infighting. As a person of faith, make it about that. Not super religious? Make it about maximizing the quality time you get to spend with your loved ones. Make it about a time of peace and reconciliation. If that isn’t possible due to your ex-spouse, disengage, step back and just be.

Holiday stress and depression is a real thing. It is something that needs to be handled as such.

Matthew Thompson is a divorce lawyer in Mississippi and wishes you a safe and Merry Christmas.