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What do you do when one family member wants to angrily vent to you about another family member?

Profile: WarmCaramel26
WarmCaramel26 on Feb 23, 2016
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Run. I'm only half-joking here. But if you are in a positive state of mind, full of energy, another person's negativity will simply hold you down.
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Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Apr 24, 2015
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first i will let him vent and then explain him the situation if he is wrong or right. because to explain him when he is wrong is not helpful
Profile: Ali
Ali on Nov 9, 2015
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It's really a matter of personal opinion. Maybe you agree and want to vent with them, maybe you like that person and feel hurt/offended/obligation to tell that family member. You should do what you feel most comfortable with, whether it be telling them that you'd rather not discuss it, suggest another form of venting, engaging with them, or just sitting there and nodding, the choice is yours.
Profile: Rebekahh
Rebekahh on Nov 10, 2015
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If I feel like I can handle a person talking negatively I will listen to what the angry family member has to say, but stay objective and not do much more than listen, because I do not feel comfortable with picking sides in a situation like that.
Profile: versatileOasis48
versatileOasis48 on Apr 30, 2015
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Sometimes you just have to let them vent. That could be the only way that they can get over the frustration. So just try to be there for them.
Profile: SamWise70
SamWise70 on Jun 18, 2015
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Listen to what they have to say, but don't insert yourself into the equation. Be non-partial and non-judgemental, but also be there for the person venting. It's hard not to take sides but with practice it's possible.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Aug 14, 2018
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I would allow this family member to vent to me. I would know my opinion of each party and wouldn't allow another family member to change my mind. But allowing this person to vent may be beneficial to them in helping them cope with whatever issues they are having.
Profile: Eli911
Eli911 on Jan 11, 2015
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I usually tell them that I am here to listen but I will not take sides on the matter. Especially if it is between family members, that is a tricky situation.
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Listen and remain neutral. My mom does this about my sister all the time. Don't take sides, just let them vent.
Profile: frostyOcean16
frostyOcean16 on May 31, 2015
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You let them vent everything and listen, don't talk or say stupid things like 'I understand' because we all know there's a 99% chance you don't. To put it simple, just listen and don't interrupt.
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