If your family is going through issues, you’re far from alone. Having family problems is incredibly common, as 70% to 80% of people come from dysfunctional families.
Sometimes there’s a particular individual in your family that turns away or is difficult to deal with. Human beings are always more alike than different, so there are some common reasons for disharmony.
Here are some reasons that family members might be keeping their distance.
They’re Dealing With Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health issues that cause family problems. More than 17 million adults in the United States today live with depression. When you’re living with depression, it feels like you’re living in a fog, or like a cloud lingers over your head.
Your family members may find it difficult to come out of themselves and exist as part of the family if they’re living with depression. Here are some of the many symptoms that people live with when they’re depressed:
- Difficulty focusing and living in the present moment
- A lack of self-worth
- Lingering feelings of deep sadness
- Becoming withdrawn and anti-social
- Restlessness and anxiety
When you have a family member that is living with depression, the last thing you should do is take it personally. Leave the door open for them to confide in you, and help your relative find mental health resources that can help.
There Could Be Addiction Issues
When people become withdrawn, irritable, and out of character, it’s often because they’re stuck in the throes of addiction. It’s a long road to recovery that requires detox, recovery, mental health therapy, and attendance in support groups.
Addiction is a dangerous issue that has reached epidemic levels recently. It causes family issues in San Diego, and in Southern California, fentanyl overdose deaths rose tenfold in a 4-year stretch. Several people are also addicted to opioids or abuse alcohol.
Speak to other relatives to see if they’ve noticed your loved one’s behavior and whether they also suspect substance abuse issues. Band together to find San Diego addiction recovery resources and services that can help save their life. Do your research so that you can get more info on helping a person living with addiction.
Your Family Member May Have a Grudge
Getting along with family isn’t always the easiest thing in the world. Because of long history, deep familiarity, and many chances for unspoken personal resentments, your family member may have a grudge against you or others that you don’t even know about.
Level with your family member and ask if there’s anything that they want to clear the air about. Make it non-confrontational, and simply about getting to the root of the issue. Encourage others in the family to do the same so that you can move past your differences and come together.
Sometimes we have problems relating to the family because we’re all so different. Consider going to family counseling to help work through these sorts of issues.
Mend Bridges With Family Members
Always stay attuned to what’s going on with your family members and loved ones. You’d be surprised how far a little bit of help and communication can carry you. Family is your foundation, so leave no stone unturned when trying to make things better.
Check-in on your loved ones, and use our site as a resource to improve your interpersonal relationships.