4 things to do if your marriage is suffering during lockdown

David Banks
Authored by David Banks
Posted: Monday, May 25, 2020 - 14:29

Being confined to your house with your partner is a situation that is out of the normal. You may not be used to living in such tight quarters and with each other around the clock. 

You have options and steps you can take if your marriage is suffering during the lockdown. Remember that you are not alone and that if you’re proactive, you’ll be able to address the situation and hopefully come to a resolution you can both agree upon. You have to try your best to stay strong and positive that with the right type of intervention, you can work through this and find happier days ahead.

Identify the Issues or Problems

An excellent first step you can take when your marriage is suffering during lockdown is to identify the issues or problems that are arising and causing you angst. Be honest with yourself and your partner about what’s truly bothering you. You may have been so busy in the past that you are now just seeing these obstacles come to light. You must be able to communicate to your spouse what you’re feeling so you can get to the bottom of what’s putting a strain on your relationship. Picture what you want your marriage to look like and what actions you can start taking today to help ensure your desires are met.

Reach Out to Friends & Family

Although you’re in lockdown, it doesn’t mean you have to completely isolate. Your networks are still there and available to you, but it may be in different ways now that you’re physically apart. If your marriage is currently suffering, then don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help and support from friends and family. Technology provides you with a variety of ways for how you can get and stay in touch with loved ones. It’s your responsibility to let others know what’s going on if you think they can assist and make you feel better. 

Consult with an Expert

Another option if your marriage is suffering during lockdown is to consult with an expert. There are marriage therapists you can meet with over the phone or on video and Local Solicitors who specialise in family law and divorce. You might want to get in touch and see what they have to say about your situation and what options you have for moving forward. You might need to find resources and answers outside your home if nothing else seems to be working.

Maintain Realistic Expectations

Lockdown is an unusual situation that will present its own set of problems to your routine, life, and relationship. Maintain realistic expectations given what you’re going through and how this lockdown may be influencing your mood. Just because you and your spouse are home more together now, doesn’t mean you have to spend every waking moment by each other’s sides. It’s still important to have your own hobbies and schedules. Instead, set aside an hour or two later in the day when you can spend some time together and talk.