Colette Lopane-Capella

The holiday season often brings joy, warmth, and cherished moments with loved ones. However, for many, it can also be a time of heightened stress and tension, especially when dealing with difficult family members. Whether it’s a relative who constantly criticizes, a passive-aggressive in-law, or someone who simply pushes your buttons, managing these relationships during family gatherings can be challenging. Here are some helpful tips for navigating these situations while maintaining your boundaries and finding inner peace during the holidays:

1. Set Clear Boundaries in Advance
Before the festivities begin, take some time to define your boundaries. Decide what behaviors are acceptable and what crosses the line for you. Communicate these boundaries calmly and assertively, preferably before the family gathering, so everyone is aware of your expectations.

2. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness
During stressful family gatherings, prioritize self-care. Take breaks when needed, practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, or go for a short walk to center yourself. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation can help reduce stress and maintain emotional balance.

3. Choose Your Battles Wisely
Not every disagreement or argument needs your immediate attention. Learn to pick your battles and let go of minor conflicts. Sometimes, it’s best to steer clear of potentially contentious topics to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

4. Use Assertive Communication
When confronted with challenging behaviors or comments, respond calmly and assertively. Use “I” statements to express your feelings without accusing or attacking the other person. For example, say, “I feel uncomfortable when…” rather than placing blame.

5. Create Exit Strategies
Have an exit plan in place if things become too overwhelming. This could involve setting a time limit for your visit, arranging transportation for a quick getaway if needed, or having a friend or support system on standby for a phone call to help you excuse yourself gracefully.

6. Focus on Positive Interactions
Redirect conversations to positive and neutral topics. Engage in activities or discussions that bring joy and foster connection rather than dwelling on contentious issues.

7. Seek Support
If the situation becomes too challenging, seek support from understanding family members, friends, or a therapist. Talking to someone you trust can provide validation and guidance on how to navigate difficult family dynamics.

8. Practice Forgiveness and Letting Go
Remember that everyone has their own struggles and flaws. Practicing forgiveness, even if it’s for your peace of mind, can alleviate the burden of holding onto grudges and resentments.

9. Consider Alternatives
If being around certain family members consistently causes distress, consider alternatives such as celebrating separately, hosting smaller gatherings, or creating new traditions that prioritize your well-being.

10. Reflect and Learn
After the holiday season, take time to reflect on your experiences. Assess what worked in maintaining your boundaries and managing difficult situations. Use these insights to better prepare for future interactions with challenging family members.

Two things can be true at once and the holiday season is a perfect example of that! Joy and sadness seem to live together during this time of year. Managing difficult family dynamics requires patience, self-awareness, and deliberate action. By setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and approaching conflicts with empathy and understanding, you can navigate these situations more effectively and find peace amidst family gatherings. Ultimately, prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being is key to finding joy during the holiday season.

In life, we all have those friends who seem to have an uncanny ability to teach us valuable lessons, even when we least expect it. I recently had a conversation with a friend that left me feeling profoundly touched and enlightened. It was a simple exchange, but the impact it had on me was immense. One afternoon, while I was chatting with my friend on the phone, she asked me for a favor. As she explained the details of what she needed help with, I found myself in a dilemma. I realized that I couldn’t assist her with her request at that moment, and it took every ounce of courage for me to say those two letters: “N” and “O.” You see, I’m a recovering people pleaser, and saying no has always been a struggle for me. It’s as if I’ve been programmed to believe that saying no is equivalent to being a bad friend. My friend had no idea how challenging it was for me to utter that small but powerful word. But what happened next left me speechless. Instead of disappointment or frustration, her response was one of the most affirming and appreciative things anyone has ever said to me. She simply replied, “Thank you for respecting your boundaries.” I was taken aback by her words. Never before had someone thanked me for setting boundaries. In fact, I often feared that saying no would lead to strained relationships or the fear of losing friends. But this moment was a turning point for me. I thanked her for acknowledging and appreciating my effort to establish boundaries. In the ensuing conversation, I shared with her just how difficult it was for me to decline her request. I opened up about the old voices in my head that often whisper, “You’re a bad friend if you don’t help your friends when they need it.” These voices, remnants of my people-pleasing past, had held me hostage for so long. What happened next was magical. My friend, with warmth and understanding, helped me see the value in setting boundaries. She explained that respecting our own boundaries is a form of self-care and self-respect, and it ultimately leads to healthier and more genuine relationships. She empowered me to believe that it’s okay to prioritize my well-being without feeling guilty or selfish. As our conversation continued, I couldn’t help but think about how I could pay this lesson forward. I realized that appreciating and acknowledging the boundaries of others is just as important as setting our own. It’s something that we often overlook in our relationships. We tend to celebrate only the times when our friends say yes, but what about the times they say no and maintain their boundaries? So, I decided to try something a little unusual at first. I made a conscious effort to express my gratitude when I saw my friends setting boundaries, even when those boundaries didn’t align with my needs or desires. It’s a small yet powerful gesture, a way of saying, “I see and appreciate your efforts to take care of yourself.” Boundaries, after all, are not barriers that isolate us from one another. They are the invisible threads that weave the fabric of our relationships, making them stronger and more resilient. When we honor and appreciate the boundaries our friends set, we are not only respecting their autonomy but also reinforcing the idea that taking care of oneself is not selfish—it’s essential. The next time a friend says no or establishes a boundary, try saying, “Thank you for respecting your boundaries.” Watch how their eyes light up, how they feel seen and acknowledged. You’ll soon realize that celebrating their ability to say no is a way of supporting them in taking care of their own well-being. In my journey to recover from people-pleasing, I have learned that setting boundaries is an act of self-love, and appreciating the boundaries of others is an act of friendship and empathy. So, let’s celebrate the moments when our friends say no, because by doing so, they are not only honoring themselves but also making our relationships stronger and more meaningful.

My Seven Years as a Doula

In the realm of life-altering experiences, nothing quite comparesin my life to the profound impact of becoming a birth and postpartum doula, working closely with hundreds of families over the past seven years. It’s a journey that has not only shaped my professional path but also transformed me as a human being and a therapist. As I reflect on my time as a birth and postpartum doula, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of honor and gratitude for the privilege of being intimately connected with birthing people and their families during one of the most transformative moments of their lives.

When I first embarked on this journey, I had no idea how it would affect me. My role as a birth and postpartum doula was not just about providing physical and emotional support during labor and birth, but it extended to the critical weeks and months that followed. It was about becoming a trusted companion on the incredible journey of childbirth and the delicate postpartum period. I witnessed the raw power of the human spirit and the strength of those in labor, as well as the vulnerability and resilience of new parents in their postpartum journey. It was a privilege to be a witness as birthing individuals discovered new versions of themselves as parents, as partners, and as human beings.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my time as a birth and postpartum doula was the importance of holding space for people as they navigated the challenges and joys of childbirth and the new reality once they came home. In this role, I became adept at providing emotional support, creating a safe environment for expression, and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their birthing experiences and postpartum care. This skillset, honed in the labor room and in homes, has proven invaluable in my work as a therapist, where I continue to help individuals explore their feelings, process trauma, and find their own path toward healing and growth.

Becoming a birth and postpartum doula also deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness of family systems. I saw firsthand how the dynamics within a family could profoundly impact the birthing experience and the postpartumtime. The support of partners, the involvement of extended family, single parenthood and the unique stories and histories of each family all played a role in shaping these pivotal moments. This understanding has enriched my work as a therapist, allowing me to approach family dynamics with greater sensitivity and insight.

As a doula I witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I saw individuals face fear, uncertainty, and pain with unwavering determination. I saw them tap into inner reservoirs of strength they never knew existed. These experiences of triumph over adversity continue to inspire me in my work as a therapist, reminding me of the incredible potential for growth and healing that resides within each of us.I have transitioned into a “retired doula” with a heart full of respect and appreciation for the vital work that doulas do in both the birthing room and the postpartum space. They are the front line of defense when it comes to protecting the mental health and emotional well-being of the families they work with.

This chapter in my life as a doula ultimately led me to discover my passion for working in perinatal mental health. The experiences, the connections, and the lessons learned during those seven years have shaped my career and my sense of purpose. I am forever grateful for the privilege of being a doulaand for the opportunity to contribute to the mental health and well-being of the families I had the honor of serving.

Unraveling the Threads of Our LivesIn the world of therapy, we often find ourselves delving into the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and personal growth. However, there’s one facet of our lives that can often be overlooked but holds immense power over us – money. The psychology of money plays a significant role in shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and overall well-being. Today, I want to share a story about a client I had, someone who worked in finance, and how their journey in therapy related to how they worked with money.

Before I dive into that story, I’d like to introduce myself briefly. I have worn many hats, but one of them brought me to the world of organizational development and consulting, where I encountered a powerful quote that has stayed with me over the years: “Show me where you spend your money, and I will tell you what you care about.” These words encapsulate the idea that how we allocate our financial resources reflects our priorities, values, and desires. It serves as a compass guiding us through life, often in ways we may not immediately recognize.

Now, let’s turn to my client’s experience, which brought the psychology of money to the forefront of our therapeutic journey. A Financial Professional’s Insight My client, let’s call him Mark, had been attending therapy sessions with me for several months. He was well-versed in the intricacies of financial markets, and his job demanded a deep understanding of numbers and trends. During one of our sessions, Mark confided in me that he had been contemplating ending his therapy sessions. At first, this revelation caught me off guard, as we had made significant progress in addressing his personal issues and stressors.

Curious, I asked him to share more about his decision. Mark explained that, as someone who works in finance, he approached his life with a meticulous and analytical mindset. He had begun to assess the return on investment (ROI) of his therapy sessions, just as he would analyze financial assets. Surprisingly, the conclusion he reached was that therapy was still “in the black” for him – it was a valuable investment in his mental and emotional well-being.

Mark’s revelation was a profound reminder of how even our deepest emotions and personal growth can be tied to the language of money. He had quantified the benefits of therapy in his life, recognizing that the positive changes he experienced far outweighed the idea of him not attending any longer. In essence, he was demonstrating the concept of ROI in the context of personal development.

“Show Me Where You Spend Your Money…”

The quote that had hung over a past colleague’s desk during my consulting days, “Show me where you spend your money, and I will tell you what you care about,” echoed in my mind throughout Mark’s story. It’s a statement that holds a mirror to our priorities, illuminating what truly matters to us. In Mark’s case, he realized that investing in therapy was a testament to his commitment to his mental health, personal growth, and overall happiness.

The Impact of Money on Our Lives

Mark’s experience highlights the intricate relationship between psychology and money. Our financial choices often reflect our values, beliefs, and emotions. Whether it’s seeking therapy, saving for the future, or indulging in a favorite hobby, how we allocate our resources speaks volumes about what we hold dear. Our family history with money and big changes in the economy all play a role in how we view it. Conversations about finances can provide insights into our priorities and stressors, helping us better understand struggles and aspirations. It’s a topic that goes beyond mere budgeting and financial planning; it’s about uncovering the underlying emotions and values that guide our financial decisions. The psychology of money is a multifaceted aspect of our lives. It influences not only our financial well-being but also our emotional and psychological health. Mark’s story serves as a powerful reminder it’s a language we all speak. Ultimately, understanding the psychology of money can lead to greater self-awareness, personal growth, and overall well-being. So, let us continue to explore this important relationship we all have with our dollars and sense.

In today’s world, the term “burnout” has become all too familiar. Many of us have experienced it or know someone who has. Burnout is a pervasive, multi-faceted issue that affects people from all walks of life. Its impact on mental health cannot be minimized. As people take on multiple roles as caretakers, professionals, parents, volunteers etc., and expectations continuously mount, bodily systems that at first make us feel heroic begin to diminish. Let’s explore what burnout is, how it affects our mental health, and most importantly, what we can do to combat it with the help of therapy.

Burnout is more than just feeling tired or stressed; it’s a chronic state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged periods of excessive stress or work demands. This can be compounded by the abandonment of practices and habits that provide self-care and replenishment as we become busier and overwhelmed. Burnout symptoms can manifest in various ways, but some common signs include:

1.     Chronic Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep. For some this may cause a reliance on caffeinated beverages or sugar for energy.

2.     Cynicism and Detachment: Developing a negative outlook and detached attitude towards work or other responsibilities.

3.     Reduced Performance: A noticeable drop in productivity and effectiveness. One may ask “why am I so disinterested in my work or making plans”?

4.     Increased Irritability: Becoming more easily frustrated or angered as if your “fuse” is short.

5.     Physical Symptoms: Experiencing headaches, body aches, digestive issues, or other physical ailments due to stress.

As you can see the symptoms are diverse and for this reason, burnout takes a significant toll on mental health. The relentless stress and exhaustion can lead to a range of mental health issues, including:

1.     Anxiety: Constant worry and fear about meeting expectations or deadlines.

2.     Depressive Episodes: A pervasive sense of sadness and hopelessness.

3.     Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks and making decisions.

4.     Impaired Memory: Forgetfulness and difficulty retaining information.

5.     Sleep Problems: Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns.

It’s important to note that when our bodies experience change in some way that causes distress, it’s advisable to consult a medical doctor to rule out medical issues as self-diagnosis is never encouraged. Having said that, being able to recognize the signs of burnout is crucial, but acting is even more important. One effective way to address burnout and its impact on mental health is by working with a therapist. Here are some ways therapy can help:

1.     Identifying the Root Causes: A therapist can help you explore the underlying causes of your burnout as it is often related to many factors that have been forces in life for extended periods of time. By understanding what’s driving your stress and exhaustion, you can develop strategies to address these issues.

2.     Learning Coping Strategies: Therapists can teach you coping strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout. These strategies may include relaxation techniques, time management skills, and setting healthy boundaries. Coping strategies while only a piece of the puzzle are important on the healing path.

3.     Providing Emotional Support: Therapy offers a nonjudgmental and confidential space to express your feelings and emotions so you can get closer to understanding your own needs. It allows you to vent, integrate your experiences, and gain perspective on your unique situation.

4.     Building Resilience: Through therapy, you can develop emotional resilience, and “glimmers of hope” which helps you bounce back from setbacks and cope with life’s challenges more effectively.

5.     Setting Realistic Goals: A therapist can assist you in setting realistic and achievable goals, helping you avoid overextending yourself and falling into past behaviors that may have contributed to burnout.

Stress is unavoidable and as people we are doing our best to strike a balance in life. Stress itself is not a bad word; in fact, we are often at our best when optimally stressed, which can make us feel accomplished and even proud. However, when our resources are consistently overrun by stress levels, we enter a chronic state of distress. This is why it’s essential to remain mindful of daily individual resources so we can take action to prevent and recover from burnout. It also helps to take account of our protective forces (friends, alone time, gym, etc.) that bring us back into our bodies and calm the nervous system. Seeking help from a therapist is a valuable step in this process, as it provides the guidance and support needed to regain a sense of control and mental well-being. Remember, you don’t have to face burnout alone – there is help available to guide you on the path to recovery and resilience.