How to Deal With a Drama Queen

Drama queens come in all forms and this includes women and men of all ages. Dealing with a drama queen isn't as difficult as one would think. All you need is to plan ahead, set some boundaries, and remain calm as you deal with a drama queen. Follow the steps below if you want to mellow out a drama queen.

Instructions

1. Stay calm and try not to react when dealing with a drama queen. By not engaging in the same dramatic energy that is thrown at you will help deflect it. If a drama queen isn't getting a rise out of you, they will eventually move on to someone else who will.

2. When dealing with a drama queen, try not to use overly dramatic words such as obnoxious, ridiculous, or crazy. Using overly dramatic words, even if you are trying to get the drama queens attention will only add to the heightened emotional state which is the exact opposite of what you want to do.

3. Validate the drama queens issue but don't dwell on it. Suggest ideas that will help re-focus the drama queens attention. If a drama queen continues to vent and remain stuck dwelling on a problem, they will only become more dramatic about it which won't solve the problem. Get the drama queen engaged in ways to fix the problem instead of dwelling on it.

4. Avoid gossiping, angering, or doing anything that may unnecessarily upset a drama queen. A drama queen is good at creating drama and you don't want to give them a reason to perform.

5. Put forth strong boundaries when dealing with a drama queen. If a conversation about an issue far extends past its conversational point, change the subject. If you have to be stern about changing the subject, then do so. When you try to lend a hand to a drama queen without success or appreciation, let them know you had good intentions but your assistance will be coming to an end.

6. If all of your attempts dealing with a drama queen have failed, it might be time to end the relationship or at least limit it if you are unable to end it entirely. There is no reason you have to be subjected to a dysfunctional and toxic relationship. If the drama queen turns out to be your boss or co-worker, consider transferring to a different department or even finding a new job if it becomes unbearable. If the drama queen ends up being your wife or husband, consider therapy.