It is no surprise with the increased stress over the last year including financial impact, job loss, virtual school and the threat of transmission, there is also a rise in overall conflict inside many homes. For one thing, we are all spending much more time at home than ever before with many of us working from home and helping our kids complete school work from home. March marks the one year mark since the World Health Organization declaring COVID-19 a global pandemic and while we are seeing signs of hope (vaccines and lower transmission rates), the long term toll of this on our interpersonal lives is largely unknown.
Increased Stress And Conflict During COVID
If you have noticed an increased level of conflict in your marriage, you are not alone. Many couples are struggling during this time. Here are some of the most common issues facing couples during the pandemic:
1. Lack of personal space
2. Dramatic changes in schedule(s) for all family members
3. Financial stress
4. Communication problems
5. Existing problems may be worsened by an increase in overall stress
If this conflict has reached a breaking point for you and you are thinking about solutions that include separation or divorce, you might want to consider mediation as a first step forward. Right now, the court system is backed up and it is difficult to move forward quickly with litigation under normal circumstances (it is even more difficult now). Mediation allows you to work with a neutral third party to come up with a plan for separating, including how your children will spend their time. Mediation will help you facilitate positive and productive communication and help you create a path forward that will work for you and your family. Mediation is far less expensive than litigation and can also be a resource anytime you need it.
Mediation Services For Couples
AMS Mediation specializes in divorce mediation services and can help you reduce the conflict in your marriage. Our team understands that this is an extraordinarily difficult time for families. We offer our mediation and parenting support services for all couples who need help. Right now, we can complete sessions virtually so that you can minimize the risk of spreading the virus and keep your family safe. Mediation focuses on reducing your overall stress and conflict, rather than increasing it and is a highly successful tool. For more information or to schedule a time for a free consultation, call us at 952-252-1492.
