Why do I avoid calls from family members?

Feeling reluctant to answer calls from family can stem from a variety of places, often pointing to underlying relationship dynamics. Sometimes it's about a need for personal space, or perhaps anticipating difficult conversations. It could also signal a deeper discomfort with expectations or past interactions that leave you feeling drained rather than connected.

Research from a 2021 study on family dynamics found that nearly 60% of adults report feeling emotionally depleted after certain family interactions, indicating a widespread experience of relational fa

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Am I the only one who secretly avoids calls from family members?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone secretly dread calls from certain family members?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to secretly resent family and avoid their calls?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to secretly dread and avoid calls from family members?

Is It Weird?

Real stories from the community

I’m a lawyer, yeah, a lawyer, and I’m like, 50, okay, almost 50 and I have my own kids and they’re grown, mostly, and I have my mom and she’s getting old and I take care of her and I swear sometimes… …

secret family resentment

But sometimes you just… you know that feeling when you're doing something, and it's fine, it's totally normal, but underneath it all, there's this weird little hum, like a refrigerator that’s just a… …

secret family resentment

I keep thinkin' about dinner and it makes me feel like crap, like a total coward. …

secret family resentment

I really don't know why I'm writing this. …

secret family resentment

I know I shouldn't even be feeling this way, honestly, because they're my own flesh and blood after all, but sometimes I just look at that little face and all I can think about is that trip to the… …

secret family resentment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to dread talking to certain relatives?▾
Yes, it's quite common to feel apprehension or dread when anticipating conversations with specific relatives. This often happens when past interactions have been stressful, critical, or emotionally demanding, leading you to brace yourself for similar experiences.
What if I feel guilty after ignoring a family call?▾
Guilt after ignoring a family call is a common emotional response, especially if you value family connections. This feeling often arises from internal expectations about how you 'should' behave, even when your immediate need is for space or to avoid strain.
Why do I feel drained after talking to my family?▾
Feeling drained after family conversations often indicates that these interactions are more demanding than they are supportive. This can happen if discussions frequently involve criticism, unsolicited advice, or a disproportionate focus on their problems without reciprocity.

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