What are healthy ways to handle conflict?

In growing up in an alcoholic and/or dysfunctional family, we might have learned lots of unhealthy ways to handle conflict, but not healthy ones.

Do you avoid conflict? Become an aggressor during one? Or play both sides against each other?

To exhibit healthy behaviors in resolving conflict, keep these skills in mind:

• Use "I" statements and not "you" ("You're wrong, you're bad, etc.")
• Take stock of your own responsibility and accountability: Did you do anything wrong? If so, admit it, and make amends.
• Have empathy for the other person.
• Be an active listener.
• If necessary, ask for time to regroup: Do you need a timeout so that you can be better open to talking?
• Set boundaries when necessary.

Resources:

• Read The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner.
• Need help? Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline. 

More Information about Let Go and Be Free:

Want to learn more about Let Go and Be Free? Check out the Let Go and Be Free book series or 30 Days of Gratitude: A Daily Guide for Adult Children of Alcoholics.

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I’m not a medical expert. If you need help, please reach out to a medical professional.

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