How To Survive Christmas With Toxic Family (Without Emotionally Imploding) 🎄😬

By Vikki – How To Feel Fucking Amazing

Ah yes, Christmas. That magical time of year when Mariah Carey screams, shops go feral, and suddenly everyone expects you to spend time with the exact family members who once traumatised your nervous system before you could even spell “boundaries”.

If you feel dread instead of festive joy… congratulations, you’re normal.

Let’s Talk About Narcissistic Relatives

Christmas with narcissists is basically a horror film wrapped in tinsel:

• fake niceness
• lectures
• passive aggressive comments
• weird power dynamics
• emotional manipulation disguised as “tradition”

They don’t want peace on earth—they want attention, control and drama. Merry fucking Christmas.

Your Nervous System Will Try To Save You

At some point, your brain will start internally screaming:

“GET ME OUT OF HERE, I’M TRAPPED IN A FESTIVE TRAUMA BUBBLE.”

This isn’t overreacting. It’s your body remembering old emotional patterns and trying to protect you.

The Golden Christmas Rule:

You don’t owe toxic people holiday access to your energy.

Not even if they’re “family”. Not even if they guilt trip you. Not even if everyone else says “just be nice”.

If you do have to see them…

Try this:

• arrive late
• leave early
• don’t engage with provocation
• don’t explain yourself
• remember: grey rock works

Your peace is more important than looking festive.

If you’re spending Christmas without them

Good. That’s emotional evolution.

Make new traditions. Eat whatever you want. Watch what you want. Rest like a peaceful queen who finally understands self-respect.

And if you’re a single parent…

You’re the hero. The magic. The love. The memory maker. No narcissistic grandparent is required for your child to feel happy and safe.

Before You Go

Christmas isn’t about obligation. It’s about choosing peace. If someone destroys your peace, they don’t get access. Simple.

This year, choose YOU.