Helping Your Loved One Through a Difficult Time

By Randi Morse

Relationships are hard work. Anyone who has been in a relationship for a long time will not hesitate to tell you that. But there are certain times in a relationship that are more difficult, and stressful, than others. When your partner is going through something big, such as the loss of a family member or friend, a job upheaval or a personal health problem, it can be difficult to know what to do. Uncertainty can bring about frustration and anger and fights can arise quickly. If the person you love is going through a rough patch right now, here are a few things that you can do to help lower their stress level, and your own as well.

Make Sure They Know You're There

One of the best things you can do for someone who is experiencing a huge life change is to simply let them know that you're there for them. They may not know what they need, and if they're frustrated they may push you away, but the point is to simply let your partner know that you're there if they need you. Give them a hug and tell them that you love them, you're sorry that they're going through such a difficult time, and you're there for anything they need. 

Take Care of Little Things

By taking care of the little things around the house, and in your life and schedule, you're giving your loved one time to deal with whatever they're dealing with. Making sure dinner is on the table, doing the dishes, or picking up the kids can all help to lighten your loved ones load a bit. Can't cook? Grab takeout. Hate dishes? Enlist the kids to help you and explain to them why you're doing everything. This will help your children not only learn to give back but also learn empathy as well.

Have Patience

One of the biggest and most important things you can do when someone you love is going through a difficult time is to be patient. It's also one of the most difficult. Try to remember that this is not how your relationship will be forever, it's just a small patch of time in your long life together. If you begin to get stressed, take a step back and do something for yourself. Watch a movie or sporting event or take a run. Do whatever it is that helps you to get rid of stress. Taking a step back allows you to go back to your partner refreshed and ready to be there when they need you.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Flowery Branch, Ga.