Strengthen your relationship during lockdown

As couples spend more time in the same space during the lockdown, it's not surprising that tensions sometimes rise. Anxiety about work, disrupted routines, child care issues, lack of social connections, and struggles to be productive at home may lead couples to vent their frustrations on each other.

Here are some tips to make relationships survive and thrive during this crisis.

Take care of yourself first: You cannot take care of other people unless you take care of yourself first. Keep some of your same routines. Plus, you can find activities that are meaningful to you, whether it's creating something, journaling, meditating, or talking to friends on the phone or video.

Carve out individual space: If both are working remotely. Make sure everyone has enough privacy to focus and conduct their business. If you both work full time from home, respect each other's time and space. It may be best to keep interruptions to a minimum during the day. One must balance doing things together and spending time on individual interests.

Don't assume the other person knows what you're thinking: None of us have experienced a pandemic before, so we have no previous experience to guide us. Talk about your feelings and what worries you. Don't assume that the other person knows something is bothering you. They cannot read your mind. You have to verbalise.

Make a plan for your household: If your relationship is further complicated by having children at home, you may want to meet weekly or even daily to discuss how you will take on responsibilities as a team. Perhaps you can divide housework or take turns at home to educate younger children.

Making a plan and executing it will give you a sense of control and fulfillment in these uncertain times.

Practice gratitude: Show gratitude and appreciation for your spouse or partner. A sincere "thank you" will link you much more than criticism of what was not accomplished or done correctly. Talk together for what you are grateful for.