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5 Tips to Help You Overcome Stress in Your Relationship

Kathleen Maiman • July 30, 2020

No matter its source, stress has a way of working itself into our personal lives and digging deep into our romantic relationships. 


Don’t let stress drive your relationship to its breaking point. Here are five tips that can help you and your partner cope with stress the right way. 


1. Recognize the Symptoms 

Modern life is stressful. Deadlines at work, money troubles, a family member that has fallen ill—all of these situations can wreak internal havoc on you and your significant other. 


The first step to coping with stress is to identify its warning signs. Does your partner seem cranky, withdrawn, angry, restless, or agitated as of late? Do you feel that they may be self-medicating with food, alcohol, or drugs? 


These are indicators that your partner—or you, if you’re experiencing the same symptoms—may be feeling overwhelmed. So, what can you do to take the pressure off the relationship? 


2. Support First 

Stress relief often comes in the form of a loving touch. As tempting as it may be to question and challenge your partner after they’ve revealed the source of their stress, now is not the time for problem-solving. Always listen and support before offering solutions. 


Imagine your partner coming home from a long day at work. Instead of engaging in a brainstorming session, or letting them know how much more significant your own stressors are, simply listen, offer a comforting touch, and let them talk through what’s bothering them. 


3. Ask If There's Anything You Can Do 

In times of stress, it’s important to keep in mind that you and your partner are equal, and all sources of stress are valid. When your partner shows signs of being overwhelmed, asking how you can help is an excellent way to validate their feelings while showing you love them. 


Try asking your partner, “What can I do to help?” Taking care of the litter, unloading the dishwasher, or giving your partner a backrub can show your partner how much you care. 


4. Respect Your Differences 

Everyone copes with stress differently. Some people prefer to be alone while others would rather talk it out in one go. Identifying your differences and learning to compromise is the best way to deal with stress productively. 


Compromise eliminates tension. For example, if your partner decompresses by hitting the gym, but you’d prefer a thoughtful conversation, a lack of communication can lead to feelings of isolation or resentment. Agreeing to talk once your partner’s workout is over is one way to satisfy both parties and avoid potential conflict. 


5. Try Couples Counselling With Kathleen Maiman 

Stress needs an outlet. Couples counselling provides an avenue for open communication between you and your partner. Become aware of the thoughts and feelings behind your partner’s reactions, identify differences, and learn how to prevent disagreements from turning sour. 


Are you feeling unsure about how to cope with stress in your relationship? The Love of Attraction couple’s counseling sessions with registered psychotherapist Kathleen Maiman can help you support each other where it counts. 


Find out more about the couples therapy and counselling services offered by clicking here. Feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions.

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