Different marriages work differently. Some work better when couples spend time apart, while others thrive when couples spend time together. Other marriages work better when couples manage their stress levels. Whatever makes your marriage work, the outbreak of the coronavirus and the isolation will put a strain on your relationship one way or the other.
Right now, you are either confined with your partner at home or apart from each other because no travels are allowed.
The coronavirus is forcing us to spend the majority of our time with our spouses or away from them.
Have you suddenly noticed that your partner chews loudly? That he or she is not a good parent? That his or her consumption of the basic commodities around the house are abnormally high? That is a pressure test on your marriage.
Experts have already pointed out that the continued outbreak of the COVID-19 could “irreversible” hurt intimate relationships just like natural calamities have done in the past.
Some reports are also stating that there has been a spike in the number of divorce applications in Xian, China because couples have been confined to close quarters for an elongated period, while British attorneys envisaging a similar phenomenon sweeping the United Kingdom.
Domestic violence cases also appear to be on the historical high and even family law in and MP Baroness Fiona Shackleton warned that families face disintegration during this pandemic.
The worst part is that it is not known yet how long this crisis is going to last.
As we wait and hope for a vaccine to be found soon, here are tips to help you combat tension in your relationship as you still trying to adjust to spending 24/7 with your partner and children in the same room.
Avoid assuming your partner's feeling
Everyone is stressed currently, but the levels of stress vary from one person to the other. So in this trying times, don’t assume your spouse will feel exactly the same way as you about the whole situation.
Maintain communication
Communication is key to ensuring your relationship doesn’t crack under the pressure of isolation and sad news that keeps popping from every corner of the globe. If you feel you can’t hold on any longer, try to communicate with your loved ones. Let them know you are struggling with the emotions and anxieties.
Be curious and not furious
With the levels of anxieties rising due to the added responsibilities brought about by the crisis, it easy to feel like your partner is not doing their best. However, it is likely that they are also feeling anxious or your emotions have blinded you to see their efforts.
High stress can lead to a lack of coherent coping skills or trigger past memories, and we have a tendency of responding to the present as we did previously.
In this case, communication will put everything into perspective. Just ask your spouse a question and listen to their answer.
Increase the levels of intimacy
Anxieties and worries can result in an unsexy impact on spouses who are confined in the same rooms for long, but this can be an antidote to stress and a pleasant break from the rut.
Take breaks
Work with your partner to establish a clear work life and home life so that you don’t work all day. Try not to mix the two, or bringing your work stress to home life and vice vasa.
Pause big arguments
Tensions are inevitable in any kind of relationship, but in this case, avoid using it to bring out all the ongoing issues in your marriage life.
Talk to your Counsellor
Arguments and conflict are common in all kinds of relationships, and not only in such extreme conditions as pandemic-related isolation. Relationship Counselling can help you talk things through and move forward. If you feel the current situation is putting a strain on your marriage, please feel free to contact me and book your marriage counselling session.
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