CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) -- According to the American Psychological Association, a recent survey said 72% of American adults are looking to avoid political discussion this holiday season with 39% saying the thought of talking about politics with family stresses them out.

12 News spoke with social psychologist Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh to hear her thoughts on how to navigate politics during the holidays.

Her biggest piece of advice was to remind yourself of the role you're playing in a family gathering -- whether that's as a courteous guest or gracious host. She also said that it's important to be aware of what might affect you.

"I think the most self-aware people are people who know their 'point of arousal' as I call them. In any given moment you could be annoyed by whatever the other person says, you could be offended, you could be hurt, you could be triggered. If you know those about yourself, as the things that come up for you, you can actually manage them there and then before they escalate to the next level," Dr. Nasserzadeh said.

In some cases, political disagreement can rise to the point of estrangement. The American Psychiatric Association said that 21% of Americans have become estranged from a family member due to disagreement over a controversial issue.

Dr. Nasserzadeh said that this is an issue she is seeing more of in her work, and that estrangement takes a toll on the family.

"The disease of our time is loneliness. This is the family that you are together with them for a reason," Dr. Nasserzadeh said. "If you have enough reason to be with them, I don't think political affiliation or political ideals or ideas at this point should be the point that you are disowning your loved ones."

You can read the full study from the American Psychiatric Association here.