The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted nearly everyone’s life in some way. Even as states across the country start to reopen slowly, some of the pandemic effects will still linger.
One of the issues surfacing due to COVID-19 is people in relationships feeling “cooped up” together.
While that might sound great at first, it can cause some underlying problems within your intimate relationship for a variety of reasons.
If your relationship is feeling a bit rocky in the shadow of COVID-19, what can you do about it? First, let’s cover some of the potential problems this pandemic could cause.
Changes in Routine
People tend to be creatures of habit. If there’s one thing this pandemic has caused, it’s a forced change in routine. Maybe you had to start working from home while your partner hasn’t been working at all. Or, perhaps you’re an “essential worker” going out for long shifts while your partner stays at home.
Any small change in routine can cause people to feel less like themselves. No matter what’s different now, take a look at how your new routine could impact your relationship.
Not Enough Space
While spending a lot of time together as a couple can be a good thing, it’s also just as essential to have space.
For states that have been on lockdown, having the time and space to do things alone has been nearly impossible. Combined with the added stress from the pandemic itself, it can often feel like a ticking bomb in a relationship.
Not having your own space can make it easier to show irritation toward your partner. Problems that may have been small before might seem more significant now. Or, you might find it easier to get into arguments.
If you feel as though you have to be extra cautious around your partner to avoid those arguments, it could be because you’re both on edge. That’s understandable. However, it doesn’t automatically mean your relationship is doomed.
Financial and Life Issues
Again, this pandemic has caused a lot of stress in many different ways. For some people, finances have become an issue. While we touched briefly on various job scenarios above, the working world has been different for everyone in light of COVID-19.
Money is a common source of conflict in relationships to begin with. If your funds have been affected by this pandemic, you might feel even more tension when it comes to talking about finances. Naturally, pressure leads to more arguments and stress.
Simply put, it’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to get out of — but it’s not impossible.
How Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Can Help
If your relationship has been a bit rocky in the wake of COVID-19, you might want to consider Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT) as a way to get back on track.
EFCT can help you to get to the root of your relationship issues. That includes problems that these uncertain times might have unveiled in your life and relationship. Once you’re able to get to the bottom of those issues, you can work through ways to combat them.
Getting through this pandemic includes finding space away from each other to do things you enjoy. It also means having more fun together instead of going through every day doing the same things. It’s finding joy in everyday activities that might seem overly burdensome right now.
Are you worried about how COVID-19 has impacted your relationship? If so, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment today. You’ll be met with compassion, care, and understanding that can strengthen your relationship. I invite you to contact me for a complimentary consultation to ask questions and discuss your situations, needs, and goals. I currently offer couples counseling through video conferencing in Colorado.