(NewsNation) — This Thanksgiving, some families might have a side of politics with their turkey instead of mashed potatoes, especially in the aftermath the 2024 election.
Dr. Mena Mirhom, a psychiatry professor at Columbia University Medical Center, said on “NewsNation Live” there are strategies people can take to prepare for political conflict this holiday season, and navigate it in a healthy way.
He suggests using the “CALM approach,” an acronym that stands for:
- Communicate curiously
- Actively listen
- Limit setting
- Maintain the big picture
Mirhom says he and his family also have a whole spectrum of opinions.
“For us, we come down to, well, first, how do we actively listen to each other?” Mirhom said. “How do I make sure I understand what you mean and validate you?”
Comedian Casey Balsham, meanwhile, said she and her dad have “shaken hands” and decided not to talk about certain topics at the table this year.
