It's completely understandable to feel anxious when your parents fight, regardless of your age. Parental conflicts can be unsettling and can trigger emotions from childhood experiences. Here are some steps you can take to cope with these feelings:
Recognize that it's normal: Understand that feeling anxious during your parents' arguments is a natural response. You are not alone in experiencing these emotions.
Practice self-awareness: Pay attention to your feelings and emotions without judgment. Acknowledge your anxiety and allow yourself to feel it without trying to suppress or ignore it.
Create distance if needed: If being present during their arguments intensifies your anxiety, consider creating some physical distance during those times. Excuse yourself politely and spend some time in a different room or outside until things calm down.
Establish boundaries: Set clear boundaries with your parents regarding their conflicts. Let them know how their arguments affect you and ask them to avoid involving you in their disputes.
Seek support from others: Talk to friends, family members, or a therapist about your feelings. Sharing your emotions with someone you trust can help you process your thoughts and reduce anxiety.
Develop coping strategies: Identify coping mechanisms that work best for you when you feel anxious. This could include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Limit exposure to triggers: If certain topics or situations tend to trigger arguments, try to minimize your exposure to them when you are around your parents.
Focus on your well-being: Prioritize self-care and focus on your own well-being. Engage in activities that bring you happiness and fulfillment, and make sure to get enough rest and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Consider family counseling: If the conflicts between your parents continue to deeply impact your emotional well-being, you may want to suggest family counseling. A professional therapist can help improve communication and address underlying issues.
Remind yourself of your independence: As a 24-year-old, remember that you are an adult capable of making your own decisions and living your life independently. While it's natural to be concerned for your parents, their conflicts are not your responsibility to resolve.
It's crucial to remember that you cannot control your parents' actions or emotions, but you can take steps to manage your own well-being and reactions to their conflicts. Seeking support and using healthy coping strategies will help you navigate through these challenging times and reduce your anxiety.