Some Americans say politics will affect their holiday plans this year, starting with Thanksgiving.
A recent survey by Spruce shows that of the 2,000 participants from all 50 states, 64 percent of them feel election-related stress will have an impact on their holiday get-togethers. 23 percent of respondents said they are even considering skipping Thanksgiving altogether.
However, there are ways to enjoy the holidays without letting politics get in the way. Relationship trainer Julie Nise says the holiday season is a time to come together and enjoy time with family rather than bicker about the election and let the news bring down your mood.
"Regardless of your political affiliation, this year was a stressful election period," Nise said. "There are so many things in the news that are dividing us."
For those planning on being at the dinner table for Thanksgiving, perhaps setting some boundaries beforehand will make things go as smoothly as possible. Nise said setting a "no politics" rule in advance isn't a bad idea, but being mature and connecting with family members over other more interesting things is better.
"If you take connection off the table and you just sit there pouting while trying to eat stuffing, what's the point in that," she asked.
Politics shouldn't be something that breaks a family apart or prevents some people from attending gatherings. Nise believes that family members can end up finding joy in other conversations with their relatives a lot easier than they think.
"You've got a whole lot more in common with the people that you sit down and have turkey with than you don't have in common," said Nise.
Other results from the survey say:
59% are worried about political disagreements causing tension at their Thanksgiving gatherings
49% want to have a total politics conversation ban for all guests and family members
63% plan to set boundaries around political discussions to prevent conflict
52% have already had arguments with their family members over political differences