Article: Whereas friendships come and go, things become more complicated when it’s your family member. If it's a family member, you’ll want to make an attempt to talk about your relationship and what bothers you. This will make them aware that what they’re doing upsets you. If they something hateful toward you, it may be because something negative going on in their life. Clearing it up may help. This depends on who the family member is and how meaningful their relationship is to you. If it is your parent, sibling or even a spouse, you may opt for an outsider’s opinion and attend therapy. Depending on the relationship there are a variety of ways to seek help such a family counselors, social workers, or other professionals that help relationships. If you have a family member that is toxic, it might be best that you only interact with them during obligatory get-togethers like holidays and celebrations. If your family member tries to see you more often, don’t be afraid to say no. You don't have to confront them about your relationship, but avoidance can help weed out the negativity from your life. Although it can be hard to cut out a negative family member, you should not let their behavior go without comment. This will not only prevent them from changing, but more importantly it will allow the negativity to remain in your life. Tell them what they’re doing bothers you. It may not make the problem go away, but at least you’re standing up for yourself. Recall their previous behavior so that you can give them specific examples. No one wants to lose a relationship with a family member but if they cannot heed your warnings that they hurt you, you have to worry about yourself first. If your family member has given no indication that they’ll change you should not let yourself be bogged down by them until they can work their own problems out. If it comes to this, don't be afraid to give them an ultimatum that let's them know their behavior is giving you no choice. That way if they persist, they'll at least know why.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Be open and communicate. Get help. Limit your interactions. Stand up for yourself. Prepare to cut them out.