Coping with the stress of relationships

The beginning of a relationship is usually lively when couples tend to fall madly in love with each other. The urge to speak and meet is so intense that time seems to fly initially. However, when the euphoria subsides and you get used to the partner, problems start to emerge in real time. Sometimes things can get so stressful that the couple begins to contemplate separation. In others, stress slowly pushes them to the brink of developing mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Breaking the bond is the easiest thing to do, but the real strength of a relationship lies in dealing with the stress of the relationship together, as a couple, and regaining harmony. Unfortunately, not many couples have the patience to get through stressful times together. However, one must remember that it is a choice. Either you can work as a team and emerge stronger or you can decide to deal with stress individually and let the relationship weaken. Here are some of the ways you can manage stress in relationships and prevent the development of mental disorders:

• Accept each other as it is – It is important to understand that reality is far from the romantic comedy movies we watch and the romance novels we read. Expecting your partner to be perfect all the time is unrealistic. We all have defects. Waiting too long paves the way for intense pressure and long-term disappointment. Therefore, one must accept his partner for who he is and focus on his strengths.
• Communicate constructively – When faced with problems, some couples tend to remain in silent mode with long periods of non-communication. This is a recipe for disaster. You have to muster the courage to break the silence and address the issues that have stymied the equation. Also, one must express one’s feelings delicately. Yelling and not listening to the other person’s perspective is harmful and would do nothing to rebuild the relationship.
• De-stressing together – Couples should de-stress together. This can be accomplished by going on vacation, going to concerts, going for a walk, learning a hobby together, watching movies, and enjoying whatever activity you both enjoy. Being intimate is also essential for relieving stress in a relationship. Some couples avoid intimacy when they have unresolved conflicts; However, it is important to make love, as it can get them talking and help solve unsaid problems.
• Avoiding the blame game – It is important to understand that in a relationship, both partners are on the same team. Pushing the other person by constantly blaming them can be exhausting and destructive to the health of the relationship. In addition, it is also essential to sincerely apologize once they understand that they are to blame.
• Maintain social media – Sometimes a couple becomes so obsessed with each other that they forget about their social obligations. While the option of spending all your time together may seem interesting at first, over time, it can bring boredom into the equation. It can also be very stressful, and socializing can provide relief. Therefore, one should keep in touch with his friends and family and meet them as often as possible.
• Invest in yourself – It is vital to be present for each other in a relationship, however, one must not forget himself. Hence, one should make sure that they invest some time and resources in taking care of themselves as well. Eating well, getting enough sleep, doing some kind of physical activity, getting a massage, etc., can help build self-esteem and revitalize a person’s spirit.

Seeking professional help
for stress

Sometimes, despite the best intentions and efforts, it becomes very difficult to reach a balanced stage in a relationship. In such cases, ongoing stress can lead to the development of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.