We Want To Know Your Tips For Surviving Awkward Political Conversations This Thanksgiving

"It's supposed to be "the most wonderful time of the year," but let's face it - for many of us, the holidays can be a lot. Whether it's navigating colder and darker days or dodging dreaded questions from family about your love life, career, and "what's next," it's no wonder a 2023 poll by the American Psychological Association found that nine in 10 U.S. adults feel increased stress during the holidays."

"On top of that, the political climate in recent years has added a new kind of weight to the holiday season. Somewhere between the turkey and stuffing, millions of Americans are bound to have a conversation that reveals the people they love most see the world in a drastically different way."

"If there's a political divide at your Thanksgiving table, we want to know: what tips and tricks have you garnered to keep the peace this holiday season? Whether you've prepared talking points or just learned to smile and pass the mashed potatoes, we want to know how you're approaching this uniquely American holiday conundrum. Maybe a recent health scare put things into perspective, and this year you're just grateful for good health and quality time with loved ones rather than harping on political differences. Or maybe you're really just coming for the food, and fully prepared to protect your peace and tune everything else out. Whatever your coping strategy, we want to hear how you're planning to navigate difficult political conversations at the Thanksgiving table this year. Share your wisdom in the comments, or using the form below if you wish to remain anonymous. Your response could be featured in an upcoming BuzzFeed Community post."

Holiday gatherings often increase stress; a 2023 American Psychological Association poll found nine in ten U.S. adults feel more stress during the holidays. Colder, darker days and intrusive family questions about relationships and careers contribute to seasonal strain. Political polarization has added emotional weight to holiday meals, making conversations potentially divisive and revealing sharply different worldviews among loved ones. People adopt coping strategies such as preparing talking points, smiling and avoiding charged topics, focusing on gratitude or health, protecting personal peace, or prioritizing the food and company. Anonymous responses about these strategies may be collected for potential community features.

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