Unbearably Toxic Relatives: How to Protect Yourself Without Destroying Relationships

You don't have to choose between «putting up with everything» and «cutting ties forever». Family is not always a place where we are unconditionally loved, accepted, and supported. Behind the externally approved «I wish you the best…», «Who else will tell you the truth?», «Is it really so hard for you to help a loved one?» often lie manipulation, devaluation, and unfounded guilt-tripping. It is especially difficult to set boundaries when it comes to close people. You can love someone – and not withstand prolonged communication with them. Want closeness – and need distance. This book will help you understand what is really happening in your relationships, learn to notice toxic behavior patterns, and stand up for yourself without endless scandals, justifications, and feelings of guilt. In addition to the theoretical foundation, you will find practical exercises, tests, and examples of specific behavioral strategies that will help not only understand the problem but also try to change the usual communication script. How to stop feeling guilty for your needs? Where does care end and control begin? How to survive a family gathering without causing a scandal? Why is it so hard to stop justifying yourself to your parents? What to do if your independence is perceived as rejection? Not all relationships can be made warm and close. But it is possible to be in them without pain.