Resolving Family Conflict
on Neutral Ground

A family is composed of different individuals, each with their own unique range of thoughts, opinions and behaviors. Within the dynamic of sharing life together, it is understandable that beliefs and personal opinions may clash from time to time. Some conflict is common and can be a healthy element of a family system. It is natural for even the most close-knit households to have struggles and disagreements.

However, disputes among members of the family can sometimes become more than occasional. Disagreements range from blaming to avoiding responsibilities, general friction among the nuclear and/or extended family to frequent outbursts. Many times, conflicts can become counter-productive. When conflicts become unhealthy it may be time to reach out for additional support. 

Conflict in the Family

It is common for two or more people with opposing and distinct personalities living together to disagree at some point. When discussions take place in a clear headed and non-defensive manner, these differences can be a source of new viewpoints that can help both parties learn and grow as individuals. Arguments, however, can cause families to drift apart when egos overtake rational thinking. At this point, conflicts can transform into personal battles.

Those who peacefully settle their differences may grow closer to each other while learning about one another’s feelings and opinions. There are, however, greater conflicts that can remain unresolved for months, even years, leading family members to harbor anger, resentment, alienation, or to take sides. Perhaps one of the most difficult things about preserving mutual understanding between family members is getting everyone to agree. This can be a tall order.

When the degree and intensity of disputes, fighting, arguments and disagreements is already disrupting family life, professional intervention can become beneficial. At these times, counseling can be the neutral ground for family members to resolve conflict and find understanding.

Signs That It Is Time to Get Help for the Family

The family can be your main source of security, support, love, and comfort. However, when family dynamics are stressed by unresolved conflict, the home can become stressful, and result in misunderstandings, anger, and anxiety, which can impact each member’s physical and mental health.

When you resolve family conflict effectively, you can become better equipped to build stronger relationships in the future. When conflict escalates to the point that it is affecting your everyday functioning, it may be the time to seek a neutral perspective.

Unresolved conflict can result in unnecessary stress for all family members. Warning signs of this can include:

  • Significant change in your eating habits or sleeping patterns
  • Frequent feelings of fatigue without any physical explanation
  • Marked weight gain or loss
  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Arguing
  • Consistent headaches or stomach aches, which may indicate an overload of stress
  • Resorting to substance abuse
  • Decline in academic performance

Whether you or a family member is aware, conflicts can have serious consequences on your emotional and physical well-being. If not effectively addressed, unresolved issues can start to consume you and the rest of the household. While life’s struggles will likely be present, counseling can be a healthy and appropriate way to create mutual understanding and harmony.

The Value of Counseling in Resolving Family Conflicts

Every household can experience trying moments that may test its foundation. Sometimes you can work through these struggles, however, there may be times when deeper conflicts are best addressed with the assistance of a professional. If your family belongs to the latter, counseling can help. 

Emotional, behavioral, or substance abuse issues may be too complex for you to resolve on your own. Seeking help from a professional may be the best way for your family to heal. Overcoming these difficulties can be a satisfying and rewarding experience to reestablish a renewed and healthier family relationship.

Seeking counseling allows you to work with a professional who can be neutral and objective while addressing your current concerns and offer a new perspective. There may be suggestions you have not previously considered. Therapy can help you learn the skills necessary to face a difficult family situation and not feel totally overwhelmed.

Embarking on Neutral Ground with Confidence

Resolving family conflict can often be difficult and challenging, considering that there are different people and personalities involved. Added to this, are the complexities and origins of conflicts that may be causing discord. This may include financial matters, sibling rivalry, miscommunication, stress brought on from medical bills, constant arguing, a disobedient child, anxiety, depression, or a host of other challenges. These concerns can be repressed and fester over a long time, which can eventually lead to relationship breakdown.

If your family is currently struggling with conflict and distress, reach out to Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC. CCS contracts with trained therapists who can help. Counseling can help you and your family get back on neutral ground. Call today to schedule your first appointment.

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