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How to talk about Thanksgiving plans when loved ones disagree

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DENVER — As Coloradans prepare for Thanksgiving next week, Colorado state leaders have asked everyone to only celebrate the holiday with people within their own households to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

But for some families, state leaders' request is easier said than done.

“It’s really been conflicting for a lot of people between feelings of disappointment and frustration and even guilt about what is the right decision for their family,” said UCHealth Licensed Psychologist Dr. Kristin Orlowski.

The Centers for Disease Control suggests virtual gatherings, but Orlowski told Denver7 that families can brainstorm other socially distanced ways to celebrate as well.

“A lot of people have been trying to find creative solutions to still feel connected with their friends and their family,” Orlowski said. “Celebrating your holidays in July, we’ve talked about that a lot with several people. Maybe we can’t celebrate the holiday like we want to today on the day of the holiday, but perhaps six months from now when things are little bit safer, we can do our Thanksgiving then.”

Orlowski told Denver7 that for families who have different ideas of how to safely celebrate the holiday, a good question to ask yourself and your loved ones is: do the benefits outweigh the risks?