O h, the holidays, a time of merriment and cheer. Unless, of course, the thought of being trapped in a house with your entire family for the purpose of sharing a meal causes you to hyperventilate. Not that it would ever occur to me to beg a physician for a prescription of Valium before visiting with relatives, but if you have had such thoughts, I have a few suggestions. First of all, pick your allies. In a volatile environment, such as a family gathering, knowing friend from foe is essential.
Siblings make great allies.
If you are an only child, I strongly encourage bringing a guest home for the festivities. The logic behind this is simple. It is more difficult for a well-intentioned person to undermine your life decisions in front of a witness. And if such a family member does persist in asking why you haven't finished school, gotten a job, found the love of your life and the like, you have someone to pour you a drink. If the consumption of alcohol interferes with your religious or personal beliefs, practice the art of counting backward.