Relationship Management

COVID has pushed us closer—sometimes too close for comfort

Take the time to seek out reasons why there may be a lack of peace and understanding within the home. (Toa Heftiba/Unsplash)

Relationships can be one of the biggest stressors there are, and that’s been highlighted by the pandemic. Whether you’re sharing a one-bedroom apartment with your partner or a four-bedroom house, it can be difficult to avoid stress and carve out space.

There is such a thing as spending too much time together, regardless of whether it’s with your husband or wife, best friend, or even your children.

Finding ways to identify and manage stressful relationship periods can help protect your heart and overall health, as well as improve your most-valued relationships.

The first thing you can do is identify why there may be a lack of peace, understanding, and general comfort within the home at times. The pandemic has added a significant cause of stress. It’s hard enough remaining in close quarters when outlets exist, but now there is almost nowhere to go.

Social isolation, normal stressors, and generational differences can all help fuel the fire.

You can, however, find ways to get along. One of them is to cut your partner some slack and remember how stressful things are at the moment. If they get mad at you for something minuscule, remember it’s likely the result of existential stress.

Take it and move on.

On the other hand, it’s also worth recognizing if you’re the one unnecessarily snapping or using little things to address bigger issues. Finding ways to communicate better what’s bothering you is a great way to ease relationship tension.

When you do communicate, avoid accusatory tones. Don’t blame your partner; rather, tell them what you’re struggling with so you can better understand each other. Use “I” instead of “you.”

Seek distance and create boundaries. Even if it’s retiring to another room for most of the day, make sure to carve out alone time. Schedule together times for meals or a walk but respect each other’s need for space. Put simply, balance closeness and distance.

Remember that getting annoyed with each other or wanting time apart does not mean there is a problem with the relationship. People are people, and things happen.

Managing relationship stress can help protect your heart and reduce the risk of chronic illness. Adjust expectations and try to implement strategies that strengthen your closest bonds.

Mat Lecompte is a health and wellness journalist. This article was first published on Bel Marra Health.