How To Deal With Stressful Times As A Couple And Family

Dr. Alduan Tartt provides tips for couples for how to support one another through stressful times without arguing.

Fall Into Resilience: Facing Stress Together as a Couple

Life can feel overwhelming with work deadlines, money worries, and parenting challenges. Many couples let these external pressures erode their connection, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With intentional strategies, couples can turn stress into strength and maintain a strong, united relationship.

Why Resilience Matters in Marriage

Research shows that external stressors are among the leading causes of conflict and dissatisfaction in relationships. Financial strain, work pressures, and parenting responsibilities can increase tension and reduce emotional intimacy. Couples who actively face these challenges together experience higher satisfaction, stronger emotional bonds, and greater overall resilience.

1. Manage Financial Stress Together

Why it matters: Financial stress is one of the top contributors to marital conflict. Couples who communicate openly and create shared plans experience less anxiety and stronger partnership.

Action Step: Set aside time each month to review your budget, plan expenses, and make financial decisions together.

Sample Dialogue:

• Partner 1: “I’m feeling stressed about our bills this month. Can we review the budget tonight?”

• Partner 2: “Absolutely. Let’s figure it out together so we’re both on the same page.”

  
  

Scripture:"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." – Proverbs 21:5

Benefit: Reduces stress, builds trust, and prevents money from becoming a wedge in the relationship.

2. Parenting as a United Front

Why it matters: Parenting can add significant pressure to any marriage. Couples who share responsibilities and present a united front reduce conflict and feel more competent and supported.

Action Step: Hold weekly discussions about parenting strategies, challenges, and values to ensure alignment.

Sample Dialogue:

• Partner 1: “I’ll handle bedtime tonight so you can finish your project.”

• Partner 2: “Thanks! That makes me feel supported and keeps us on the same team.”

  
  

Scripture:"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." – Proverbs 22:6

Benefit: Strengthens trust, reduces tension, and models teamwork for children.

3. Prioritize Each Other During Stress

Why it matters: Stress often leads couples to unintentionally neglect their relationship. Maintaining intentional connection reinforces emotional intimacy and satisfaction.

Action Step:Commit to at least 10–15 minutes each day to check in, share feelings, or connect without distractions.

Sample Dialogue:

• Partner 1: “Let’s turn off our phones for 15 minutes tonight and just talk.”

• Partner 2: “I love that idea. I’ve missed connecting like this.”

  
  

Scripture:"But the one who is united with the Lord is one with him in spirit." – 1 Corinthians 6:17

Benefit: Strengthens emotional intimacy, reduces conflict, and reinforces a sense of partnership.

Conclusion

Stress doesn’t have to weaken your marriage. By managing finances together, parenting as a team, and prioritizing each other’s needs, couples can turn external pressures into opportunities for growth and connection. The strongest marriages are built not when life is easy, but when couples navigate challenges together.

For more strategies to strengthen your marriage, visit www.betterhusbandbetterwife.com and start implementing these practices today.