What are the most common pressures on relationships?
It is normal to go through ups and downs in any relationship, whether that be a friendship, romantic relationship or between family members. However, if the issues start to recur and become more of a problem by putting strain on your relationship, this could be a cause for concern and professional support may be necessary.
Tanya Dharamshi, Clinical Director and Counsellor at Priory Wellbeing Centre Dubai has extensive experience in working with couples through relationship difficulties. Tanya offers her insight into some of the common issues she has seen counselling couples and offers ways to help ease the pressure.
Some of the most common pressures seen in relationship counselling are:
- Working hours – if a partner starts to work longer hours or travels more frequently for work, this can put strain on the other partner, especially if children are involved. This can also result in the partner being more tired and less interested in doing activities together.
- Finances – if financial struggles arise in a relationship, this can put extra pressures and stress on the couple. Sometimes this can result in frequent arguments due to the financial worries.
- Childcare issues and parenting styles – If a couple have different values and beliefs, this can be a cause of conflict in the relationship.
- Unrealistic expectations – Holding unrealistic expectations of a partner often leads to disappointment and resentment.
- Strained extended family relationships – difficult relationships and pressure coming from extended family such as the in-laws can cause problems between you and your partner, especially if they interfere in your relationship or with your parenting styles.
What can be done to ease the pressure?
- Make time for each other – with life getting in the way, it is important that couples make time in their busy schedules for each other. This could be a regular ‘date night’ planned in where each of you will take it in turns to plan something special for you to do together, and spend some quality time enjoying each other’s company.
- Communicate – communication is key! You are a team and teams have a strategy to get through. Resolve any conflicts quickly by discussing them in a calm and neutral environment.
- Learn to work together– Relationships are about give and take. It is good to try to find a middle ground in any situations which will suit both of your differing values, personalities and expectations.
- Avoid the ‘blame game’ – being critical of your partner or assigning blame for actions which don’t meet your expectations will only push you apart. Find opportunities to build each other up or offer support when needed. Remember the point about being a team.
- Recognise the signs of strain and stress – if you can pick up on the signs of strain and stress occurring in your relationship, you can seek support early to help combat this. This support could come from family and friends or professional intervention if more appropriate.
What if professional treatment is necessary?
It can be a daunting prospect to realise you may need professional support with your relationship. However, receiving the right support from a professional psychologist is an important step to take to address your difficulties and resolve your conflicts in a neutral and safe environment.
To find out more about relationship counselling offered at Priory Wellbeing Centre Dubai, call +971 4 245 3800 to speak to one of our administrative team today in confidence or submit an online enquire form.