Hi all,

Is there trouble in Quarantine Paradise? Are you and your spouse at each other’s throats? With everything’s that’s been going on as of late, it’s totally normal if you are. It’s okay and you guys will be okay! That’s why in today’s Dr. C post, we’re talking about how to not only survive quarantine with our partners but to improve our relationships with them.

Stress on marriage during quarantine

Stress exacerbates or can trigger underlying issues in a relationship. And let’s not forget that couples aren’t normally with each other all day - unless we work together - and there’s been a whole lot of 24/7 quality time recently! So naturally, disagreements and arguments can arise.

Having worked with my husband full time and from home for the last 4 years and having been together since high school - I wanted to share some of the tips that have helped us remain sane and thrive.

Relationship Check-ins are essential

Relationships are like a car. Sure they’re perfect when they’re brand new but over time they need check ups otherwise it’ll break down. This leads me to item 2.

Communication is key

During conversations, really listen. For a loving relationship to exist, loving conversations that foster understanding are so important. Your partner wants to know they’re being heard, as are you. When responding to your partner after they just voiced something try repeating key words they just said so they know they were heard.

Disagreement will occur

When disagreements occur - and they will-, Have an understanding that if the conversation is not being productive, constructive, or helpful, that maybe it’s time for a time outs. This way, the conversation can continue when both parties have cooled off and are clear headed.

Prevention is key

Know what triggers are for disagreements so we can do everything to prevent them from happening. It’s so much easier to prevent something than to deescalate it.

What has helped you and your spouse? Let me know in the comments below!

Xo,

Dr. C