The Coronavirus pandemic, at least for the short term, has changed life as we know it. The disease keeps us from work and social activities and we don’t know for how long. The idea of being at home for weeks on end is starting to set in. The extroverts are going crazy. The introverts want the extroverts to get out! Cabin fever is setting in and our relationships are at a tipping point. Here are three ways to handle the pressure.
Coronavirus Cabin Fever: 3 Ways to Handle the Pressure and Keep Your Relationship Intact
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If you’re not used to being up under your spouse 24/7, life in the age of the coronavirus pandemic is changing all of that. Needless to say, it can be easy to get on each other’s nerves. But the pressure from constantly being in each other’s face doesn’t have to break you. In other words, just as pressure breaks pipes it also forms diamonds. What happens to your relationship during these next few weeks or months is completely up to you.
Pray faithfully
Praying together goes without saying. Praying and believing, however, is a much bigger ask. When times get tough, it’s hard to keep your focus. So when you pray by yourself, your mind isn’t always in the game. By praying with your spouse, you forge a stronger bond as you draw close to God together. You open your heart, reveal your struggles, and strengthen your resolve to trust God during difficult times. If you want to break cabin fever, prayer is a great place to start.
Prepare diligently
Challenging situations come in all forms. They’re not always easy to handle. But the key to success is preparation. Granted, this is an unprecedented situation. But that doesn’t mean you’ve lost the golden time to prepare. In some cases, you’ll need to handle things as they come. In others, you can plan ahead. But in all cases, you can earnestly prepare to meet the challenges head-on.
- Prepare mentally – Cabin fever is no joke so don’t take it lightly. Give each other the space you need so your mind can get the rest it needs.
- Prepare emotionally – No one knows what your spouse will need emotionally better than you. Take time to consider their needs and do your best to meet them.
- Prepare financially – Because the economy is reeling right now, this might seem impossible. However, doing some research on contingency plans offered by your community or your church might be a great place to start.
Process honestly
We’re all different beings so the way we process stuff won’t be the same. The main point here is to be honest about what we’re going through.
- Communicate what you are feeling with your spouse. And, if you are the one listening, offer reassurance to your partner. Don’t downplay their emotions and certainly don’t dismiss their feelings. Sometimes all they need is for you to listen.
- Contact a mental health professional or seek spiritual counseling. There is a stigma associated with therapy that simply has to go. Seeking professional help is not just a means of saving your relationship, it can also save your life.
- Take a walk. Go for a run. Get out of the house. Watch a movie or three. Start learning a new language.
This new way of life can either tear you apart or draw you closer together. I vote to draw closer. What about you?
BMWK, what are some things you can do to get rid of cabin fever and draw closer to your spouse?
Up next: 5 Ways You Can Be Your Spouse’s Best Christian Friend