Tips to help couples get along during lockdown

Tuğçe Nur Doğan, clinical psychologist of Izmir University of Economics (IUE), advised couples for correct communication during the full lockdown period and warned that this period should not turn into "introversion". Stating that in this period when socialization is at its lowest level, couples will need each other more, Doğan said that the formula that will enable couples to get along and get support from each other consists of respect, sharing, trust and empathy.

Tuğçe Nur Doğan, who works at the IUE Psychology Application and Research Center, pointed out that many people have been struggling with extreme anxiety and depression in the Covid-19 period, which has been going on for more than a year, and stated that this situation should be resolved without harming the family.

Doğan said, “The lockdown period can have challenging implications for everyone. This is very normal. However, it is also possible for us to spend the time at home relatively more comfortably and enjoyable during full lockdown. One of the spouses can avoid socialization and communication by needing more of their own individual space due to the psychology of being lockdown. The other may act the opposite and need more intense communication and sharing. Honestly, this is a subject that is neither right nor wrong. Therefore, couples should clearly state their needs and respect each other's demands. For example, not everyone has to wake up or eat at the same time. However, couples should be able to act with the idea that 'even if I do not want it so much, I can try to eat a meal with him/her because my spouse needs it'.”

NOT EVERY DAY HAS TO BE VERY EFFICIENT

Emphasizing that people do not have to spend every day incredibly productive and meaningful, Doğan said, “If we don't feel like reading a book or learning something new for that day, we shouldn't push ourselves too hard. In such a situation, we should not be anxious about feeling like falling behind in life. Of course, if this situation becomes permanent, then there is a problem, and a solution is definitely needed at such a stage. Maintaining the order that the body is accustomed to in matters such as waking up, working and mealtimes can prevent difficulties such as extreme fatigue, weakness, insomnia. For this reason, the usual routine should be maintained as much as possible. For example, a person who exercises every day should create an opportunity to exercise at home. Continuing the order, the body is accustomed to is a spiritually protective factor.”

OPPORTUNITY TO INCREASE COMMUNICATION

Doğan continued as follows: “One of the most necessary elements of the lockdown is 'to share'. Couples with children have more alternatives. Playing games together with the child, engaging in activities that appeal to the common taste strengthen the relationship within the family. Activities such as baking pastry or painting, sorting out excess items in the house, separating toys that are no longer played will be useful. Considering that you stay away from the closest friends and relatives in the hustle and bustle of life, spending a part of the day communicating with them will also be good for our psychology. We can turn the lockdown period into an opportunity in this respect.”