If you’re feeling stressed out and overwhelmed in your marriage, you’re not alone. Marriage can be a wonderful source of love and support, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. When you add stress into the mix, it can be easy to feel like you’re drowning. However, it’s important to remember that stress within a marriage is normal, and there are strategies you can use to manage it effectively.
In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects of stress related to marriage and provide effective strategies for managing it. Understanding the causes and impact of stress in a marital relationship is essential for finding solutions and improving overall well-being.
Key Takeaways:
- Stress within a marriage is very common.
- Understanding the causes and impact of stress is essential for effective management.
- There are specific strategies that can be used to manage stress within a marriage.
- Managing stress in a marriage is an ongoing process that requires commitment and effort.
- Effective stress management can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling relationship.
The Impact of Stress on Marriage
Marriage is a beautiful and fulfilling union between two people in love, but it can also be a source of stress and turmoil. When stress enters into a marriage, it can have a profound impact on both partners, individually and as a couple. The effects of stress on married life can manifest in several ways, including:
- Increased conflicts: Stress can lead to an increase in arguments and disagreements between partners, which can strain the relationship and lead to further stress.
- Decreased intimacy: When stress becomes a constant presence in a marriage, it can lead to a decrease in emotional and physical intimacy between partners, which can further exacerbate the stress.
- Individual struggles: Stress from external sources, such as work or personal issues, can spill into the marriage and cause individual struggles for each partner.
It’s important to recognize the signs of stress in your marriage to take action and prevent it from causing further damage. Common signs of stress in a marriage include:
- Feeling irritated or angry more often than usual
- Having trouble sleeping
- Lack of interest in spending time with your partner
- Feeling overwhelmed or anxious about the future of your relationship
By identifying the signs of stress and its impact on your marriage, you can start taking steps to address the root cause of the stress and find ways to manage it effectively.
Dealing with Stress in Marriage
Managing stress in a marriage requires a joint effort from both partners. Communication is crucial for identifying the sources of stress and finding solutions to manage it together. It’s important to be open and honest with your partner about your feelings and the stress you’re experiencing.
“Stress is an inevitable part of life, but how you deal with it can have a significant impact on your marriage.”
Developing stress-management strategies as a couple can also be beneficial. This may include setting aside time for self-care activities or finding ways to reduce stress as a team, such as taking a relaxing vacation or engaging in a physical activity together.
It’s also essential to seek professional help if necessary. Sometimes, the stress in a marriage may be too overwhelming to manage alone. Seeking counseling or therapy can provide a safe space for couples to talk through their stress and find practical solutions.
Remember, stress is a normal part of life, and it’s inevitable that it will enter into your marriage at some point. However, with effective stress-management strategies and a joint effort to address the root causes of stress, you and your partner can maintain a healthy and harmonious relationship.
Common Sources of Stress in Marriage
Marriage is a beautiful union, but it is not without its challenges. Coping with marital stress is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. Understanding the common sources of stress can help you and your partner manage stress effectively and foster a stronger bond.
Financial Pressures
Financial stress is a leading cause of marital strain. Money concerns can arise from a lack of income, mounting debt, or conflicting spending habits. Coping with financial stress requires open communication and planning. Creating a budget, setting financial goals, and seeking professional advice can help alleviate money-related stress.
Communication Issues
Effective communication is the cornerstone of a healthy marriage. Communication issues, such as avoiding conflict or failing to listen to your partner, can lead to misunderstandings and resentment. Coping with communication-related stress requires active listening, expressing your feelings clearly, and seeking support from a trusted therapist or counselor.
Conflicting Expectations
Conflicting expectations can be a significant source of stress in a marriage. Differences in values, beliefs, and goals can lead to disagreements and misunderstandings. Coping with conflicting expectations requires compromise, honest communication, and a willingness to find common ground.
Life Transitions
Transitions such as becoming parents, changing jobs, and relocating can introduce stress into a marriage. Coping with these changes requires flexibility, patience, and open communication. Supporting your partner through difficult transitions can strengthen your bond and foster a resilient relationship.
Unbalanced Roles and Responsibilities
Imbalanced roles and responsibilities can create stress in a marriage. When one partner feels overwhelmed or undervalued, it can lead to resentment and strain on the relationship. Coping with imbalanced responsibilities requires open communication, delegation, and a willingness to share the workload.
By identifying the common sources of stress in marriage and implementing effective coping strategies, you and your partner can reduce stress and strengthen your bond. Remember, managing stress is an ongoing process that requires effort and commitment, but the rewards of a healthy and harmonious relationship are well worth it.
The Physical and Emotional Effects of Marital Stress
Marital stress can take a significant toll on both the mental and physical well-being of spouses. When stress becomes chronic, it can lead to a range of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression. Understanding the physical and emotional effects of marital stress is crucial for taking steps to reduce it.
Reducing stress in a marriage:
- Make time for self-care: Prioritizing your own physical and emotional well-being is essential for reducing stress. Incorporate activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with friends into your routine.
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Avoid turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol or drugs. Instead, develop healthy ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing, journaling, or seeking social support.
- Practice effective communication: Communication is key to reducing stress within a marriage. Use “I” statements to express your feelings, actively listen to your partner, and work together to find solutions to shared problems.
- Seek professional help: If you are struggling to manage stress on your own, consider seeking professional help. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable tools and strategies for reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
It’s important to remember that managing stress in a marriage is an ongoing process that requires commitment and effort. By taking steps to reduce stress, you can improve your own well-being and strengthen your relationship with your partner.
Infographic: Physical Effects of Stress
“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” – William James
Communication Strategies for Stressful Times
Communication is key to effectively managing stress within a marriage. When partners are facing challenging situations, it’s essential to use strategies that promote understanding, empathy, and problem-solving.
Active Listening
Active listening involves giving your full attention to your partner when they are speaking. This means avoiding distractions and truly focusing on what they are saying. During stressful times, active listening can help both partners feel heard and valued.
Empathy
Empathy involves putting yourself in your partner’s shoes and trying to understand their perspective. This can be difficult during times of stress, but it’s important to remember that both partners may be experiencing different emotions and reactions. Practicing empathy can help partners relate to each other and find common ground.
“I” Statements
When discussing stressful situations, it’s important to use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. This involves focusing on how the situation is affecting you personally, rather than placing blame on your partner. “I” statements can help partners communicate without becoming defensive or accusatory.
Problem-Solving
During stressful times, it’s important to work together to find solutions to the problem. This involves brainstorming ideas and collaborating to find a resolution that works for both partners. Problem-solving can help partners feel empowered and work towards a common goal.
Remember, effective communication is an ongoing process. It takes time and effort to develop strong communication skills, but the rewards are well worth it. By practicing active listening, empathy, “I” statements, and problem-solving, you can manage stress within your marriage and strengthen your bond with your partner.
Financial Stress and its Impact on Marriage
Financial stress is a common source of tension in many marriages. This stress can come from a variety of factors, including debt, job loss, living paycheck to paycheck, or conflicting spending habits. Whatever the cause, financial stress can take a significant toll on your relationship and overall well-being.
One way to mitigate financial stress in marriage is to establish clear communication and set shared goals. Sitting down together to create a budget and spending plan can help you both feel more in control of your finances and reduce anxiety. Additionally, setting specific financial goals, such as saving for a down payment on a house or paying off debt, can give you something to work toward together and strengthen your bond.
If you’re struggling with financial stress, it’s important to seek support. Consider reaching out to a financial adviser or a credit counselor who can provide guidance and resources to help you manage your money. Additionally, some couples find that talking to a therapist or counselor about their financial concerns can be helpful in reducing stress and improving communication.
| Strategies for Managing Financial Stress in Marriage | Benefits for Marriage |
|---|---|
| Establish a budget and spending plan | Helps you both feel in control and reduces anxiety |
| Set shared financial goals | Gives you something to work toward together and strengthens your bond |
| Seek support from a financial adviser or credit counselor | Provides guidance and resources to manage your money |
| Talk to a therapist or counselor | Reduces stress and improves communication |
Remember, financial stress in marriage is common, but it doesn’t have to control your relationship. By communicating openly, setting shared goals, and seeking support when necessary, you can reduce stress and build a more stable financial foundation for your future together.
Balancing Roles and Responsibilities in Marriage
Marriage is a partnership that requires both partners to share responsibilities and work together towards common goals. However, imbalanced roles and responsibilities can introduce stress into the relationship. Here are some tips for balancing roles and responsibilities in marriage:
- Communicate openly: Discuss your expectations and responsibilities with your partner. Be open and honest about how you feel and listen to your partner’s perspective. Identify areas where you might need to adjust your expectations.
- Make a plan: Create a plan or a schedule that outlines your respective responsibilities. This can include household chores, childcare duties, and financial obligations. Ensure that the plan is fair and equitable, with each partner taking on an equal amount of work.
- Be flexible: Life can be unpredictable, and things don’t always go as planned. Be willing to adjust your responsibilities if needed to accommodate unexpected events or changes in circumstances.
- Delegate tasks: Don’t try to handle everything on your own. Delegate responsibilities to your partner and trust them to follow through. This can help alleviate feelings of overwhelm and promote a sense of partnership.
- Recognize each other’s strengths: Everyone has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Recognize your partner’s strengths and encourage them to take on tasks that align with those strengths. This can help ensure that each partner is contributing in a meaningful way, while also reducing stress and frustration.
Examples of Balanced Roles and Responsibilities
Here are some examples of how you and your partner can divide responsibilities in a way that is fair and equitable:
| Responsibility | Partner 1 | Partner 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Household Chores | Cooking, grocery shopping, laundry | Cleaning, dishes, taking out the garbage |
| Childcare | Drop off and pick up from school, help with homework | Bathe and dress children, prepare meals |
| Finances | Pay bills, manage investments | Track expenses, prepare taxes |
| Emotional Support | Listen to partner’s concerns, offer comfort and encouragement | Provide space for partner to express emotions, offer validation and support |
Remember, balancing roles and responsibilities requires ongoing communication, flexibility, and a willingness to work together. By sharing the load, you can reduce stress and promote a more harmonious relationship.
Strategies for Conflict Resolution in Marriage
Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, and when managed effectively, it can actually strengthen the bond between partners. However, unresolved conflict can lead to chronic stress and damage the relationship over time. To reduce stress in your marriage, it’s essential to develop effective strategies for resolving conflicts.
Practice Active Listening
One of the most critical skills in conflict resolution is active listening. Active listening means paying close attention to your partner’s words, acknowledging their feelings, and trying to understand their perspective. When you actively listen, you demonstrate that you value their opinion and are willing to make an effort to see things from their point of view. This helps to build trust and respect, critical components of a healthy marriage.
Avoid Blame and Criticism
Blaming and criticizing your partner typically only escalates the conflict and leads to defensiveness. Instead, focus on describing the specific behavior or situation that is causing the issue while avoiding generalizations or character attacks. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and concerns. For example, “I feel hurt when you don’t follow through on your commitments” is more effective than “You always let me down.”
Take a Break When Needed
Sometimes, conflicts become too intense, and it’s essential to take a break to cool down. It’s okay to call a timeout if you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed or emotionally flooded. During a break, suggest a specific time to resume the conversation, so your partner doesn’t feel ignored or dismissed. Use the break to engage in a self-care activity or to reflect on your thoughts and feelings.
Compromise and Negotiate
Successfully resolving conflicts often requires compromise and negotiation. Both partners need to be willing to give a little and find a mutually acceptable solution. To do this effectively, both parties should clearly articulate their concerns and brainstorm possible solutions. Then, work together to develop a plan that meets both partners’ needs and interests.
Remember, conflict resolution is an ongoing process that requires patience, effort, and commitment. By practicing active listening, avoiding blame and criticism, taking breaks when needed, and compromising and negotiating, you can reduce stress in your marriage and build a stronger bond.
The Importance of Self-Care in Marriage
When it comes to managing stress in marriage, taking care of yourself is just as essential as working on the relationship. Self-care activities can help alleviate stress and promote overall well-being, enabling you to be a better partner. Here are some practical suggestions for incorporating self-care into your daily routine:
- Set aside time for yourself each day. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or listening to music, find an activity that brings you pleasure.
- Prioritize sleep. Getting enough rest is crucial for physical and mental health, so make sure you’re getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise is a natural stress reliever, and it can also help boost your mood and energy levels.
- Eat a healthy diet. A balanced diet can provide the nutrients and energy your body needs to function properly, boosting your overall well-being.
- Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can all promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Remember, self-care is not selfish, it’s a vital component of managing stress in your marriage.
Seeking Professional Help for Marriage Stress
Managing stress in marriage can be challenging, and sometimes professional help is necessary to address and alleviate stress effectively. Seeking counseling or therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for couples to explore their concerns and work towards solutions.
If you and your partner are experiencing ongoing stress that is impacting your well-being, it may be worthwhile to consider seeking professional help. A licensed therapist can help you build communication skills, resolve conflicts, and develop strategies for coping with stress together.
Remember, seeking professional help doesn’t mean that your relationship is in crisis or that you have failed in any way. Rather, it is a proactive step towards improving the health and happiness of your marriage.
Here are some signs that it may be time to seek professional help for marriage stress relief:
- You feel disconnected from your partner and lack intimacy and emotional connection
- Your arguments are becoming increasingly frequent and intense
- You are dealing with external stressors, such as financial strain or a major life transition, that are impacting your relationship
- You are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed due to relationship stress
Remember, every marriage is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing stress in marriage. However, seeking professional help can provide valuable support and guidance as you and your partner navigate the challenges of married life together.
Strengthening the Bond: Building Resilience in Marriage
Building resilience in marriage is crucial for managing stress and promoting a healthy relationship. When faced with challenges, resilient couples are better able to communicate effectively, support each other emotionally, and work together to find solutions.
Prioritize Quality Time Together
Spending quality time together is essential for building resilience in your marriage. Whether it’s a weekly date night or a weekend getaway, carving out time to connect with your partner can help you both feel supported and valued.
Consider activities that you both enjoy, such as trying a new restaurant, taking a fitness class together, or planning a vacation. Remember, the goal is to prioritize time together without distractions. Put away your phones, turn off the TV, and focus on each other.
Practice Gratitude and Appreciation
Cultivating gratitude and appreciation can significantly reduce stress and enhance marital satisfaction. Take time to acknowledge the positive aspects of your relationship and express gratitude for your partner’s contributions.
Consider starting a gratitude journal where you both write down something you appreciate about each other every day. Or, take turns sharing one thing you’re grateful for at the end of each day. This simple practice can help shift your mindset towards a more positive and resilient outlook.
Seek Support When Needed
Seeking support when faced with challenges is another important aspect of building resilience in your marriage. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, seeking advice from a therapist, or joining a support group, reaching out for help can provide valuable perspective and support.
Remember, managing stress in marriage is an ongoing process that requires commitment and effort. By prioritizing quality time together, practicing gratitude and appreciation, and seeking support when needed, you can build a strong and resilient bond with your partner.
Enhancing Intimacy and Connection in Marriage
Intimacy and connection are essential components of a healthy marriage, and they can play a significant role in managing stress.
One important way to enhance intimacy and connection is to prioritize quality time together. Make time for date nights, weekend getaways, and other activities that allow you to focus on each other and strengthen your bond. Try to put aside distractions like phones and work-related stressors during these times to fully engage and connect.
Another way to foster intimacy is through physical touch. Holding hands, hugging, and kissing are all simple ways to increase feelings of closeness and promote emotional and physical well-being. Consider setting aside dedicated time for physical intimacy, whether that means scheduling a regular date night or simply making a conscious effort to prioritize intimacy in your daily routines.
It’s also important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about your needs and desires. If you’re feeling disconnected or stressed, don’t be afraid to talk to your partner about it. By sharing your feelings and working together to find solutions, you can strengthen your bond and build resilience in the face of stress.
Intimacy Building Exercises
There are many exercises and activities that can help you and your partner strengthen your intimacy and connection. Consider trying some of the following:
- Sharing a favorite memory from your childhood
- Trying a new hobby or activity together
- Writing each other love letters
- Exploring each other’s interests and passions
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation together
Remember, building intimacy is an ongoing process that requires effort and commitment. By prioritizing quality time together, fostering physical touch, and communicating openly and honestly, you can enhance your connection and build a resilient, stress-resistant marriage.
Cultivating Gratitude and Appreciation in Marriage.
Expressing gratitude and appreciation can significantly reduce stress and enhance marital satisfaction. Taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate your partner’s efforts and positive qualities can create a sense of connection and deepen your bond.
One way to cultivate gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you are grateful for about your partner or your marriage. This practice can help you focus on the positive aspects of your relationship and increase feelings of happiness and contentment.
Example of a Gratitude Journal:
| Date | Gratitude |
|---|---|
| Monday, June 14th | Thank you for making me breakfast this morning and always taking care of me when I’m sick. |
| Tuesday, June 15th | I appreciate how you always listen to me and provide support when I’m feeling stressed. |
| Wednesday, June 16th | Thank you for planning a date night and always making an effort to keep our relationship strong. |
Another way to express gratitude is through acts of kindness and gestures of appreciation. Surprise your partner with a small gift or a heartfelt note expressing your love and appreciation. Taking the time to show your partner that you care can create a positive cycle of connection and strengthen your relationship.
Cultivating gratitude and appreciation requires intentional effort and practice, but the benefits are well worth it. By focusing on the positive aspects of your relationship and expressing gratitude for your partner, you can reduce stress in your marriage and build a stronger, more fulfilling bond.
Life Transitions and Stress in Marriage
Life is full of transitions, both positive and negative, that can introduce stress into a marriage. Whether it’s becoming parents, changing careers, or dealing with illness, these life changes can be challenging to navigate as a couple. However, with the right approach, you can manage these transitions effectively and come out stronger on the other side.
Recognize the Impact
It’s important to recognize the impact that life transitions can have on your marriage. Even positive changes, such as the birth of a child or a promotion at work, can introduce stress and strain into your relationship. By acknowledging the potential challenges that come with these transitions, you can take proactive steps to manage them effectively.
Communicate Openly
Effective communication is essential when going through a life transition. Make sure that you keep the lines of communication open with your partner, being honest and transparent about your feelings and concerns. By working together as a team, you can face these challenges head-on and find solutions that work for both of you.
Stay Connected
During times of transition, it’s easy to become disconnected from your partner. Make an effort to stay connected by spending quality time together and prioritizing intimacy and connection. This can help to strengthen your bond and provide a sense of stability during a time of change.
Take Care of Yourself
When going through a life transition, it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in regular exercise. Additionally, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to help you manage the stress and emotions that come with these changes.
Overall, life transitions can be a challenging time for couples, but by recognizing the impact, communicating openly, staying connected, and taking care of yourself, you can manage the stress and come out stronger on the other side.
Embracing Flexibility and Adaptability in Marriage.
Dealing with stress in marriage requires a willingness to adapt and embrace change. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected challenges will inevitably arise. However, by cultivating a flexible mindset and approach to problem-solving, you can reduce stress and strengthen your bond with your partner.
One key aspect of flexibility is being open to compromise. When conflicts arise, it’s essential to be willing to meet in the middle and find solutions that work for both partners. This may involve letting go of rigid expectations or finding creative ways to meet each other’s needs.
Another crucial element of flexibility is the ability to adjust to changing circumstances. This may involve navigating significant life transitions, such as moving to a new city, changing jobs, or having a child. By remaining adaptable and open-minded, you can better cope with these changes and minimize their impact on your marriage.
One effective way to cultivate flexibility and adaptability is to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness involves being present and fully engaged in the moment, without judgment or distraction. By incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine, you can develop a greater sense of awareness and acceptance, which can help you navigate stressful situations more effectively.
Finally, it’s essential to maintain a positive attitude and outlook, even in the face of adversity. While stress and challenges are inevitable, focusing on the positive aspects of your marriage and relationship can help you maintain perspective and find joy and fulfillment amid difficult times.
Example Table:
| Ways to Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability | Benefits for Dealing with Stress in Marriage |
|---|---|
| Practice mindfulness | Develop greater awareness and acceptance |
| Be open to compromise | Find solutions that work for both partners |
| Adjust to changing circumstances | Minimize the impact of life transitions on your marriage |
| Maintain a positive attitude | Find joy and fulfillment amid difficult times |
By embracing flexibility and adaptability in your marriage, you can navigate stress and challenges more effectively and build a stronger, more resilient bond with your partner.
Conclusion
Managing stress in your marriage is a continuous process that requires effort, patience, and understanding. By identifying the sources of stress, communicating effectively, and prioritizing self-care, you can significantly reduce the impact of stress on your relationship.
Remember the Importance of Resilience
Resilience is essential for navigating stress in your marriage. By building a strong bond between partners, seeking professional help when necessary, and embracing flexibility, you can weather any storm. Remember that building resilience takes time and consistent effort.
Take Care of Yourself
Self-care is crucial for managing stress within your marriage. Make time for activities that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish, but rather an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy relationship.
Express Gratitude and Appreciation
Expressing gratitude and appreciation for your partner can significantly reduce stress and enhance marital satisfaction. Make a habit of regularly expressing your appreciation for your partner’s efforts and contributions to the relationship.
Remember, managing stress in your marriage is an ongoing process that requires commitment and effort. However, by employing effective strategies and prioritizing your relationship, you can reduce stress and build a fulfilling and resilient bond with your partner.
FAQ
Stress can have a profound impact on a marriage, affecting both partners individually and the relationship as a whole. It can lead to increased conflict, decreased intimacy, and overall dissatisfaction with the relationship.
Common sources of stress in a marriage include financial pressures, communication issues, conflicts in expectations, balancing roles and responsibilities, and dealing with major life transitions.
Stress in a marriage can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It can also cause emotional distress, including feelings of anxiety, sadness, and irritability.
Effective communication is key for managing stress in a marriage. Strategies such as active listening, expressing emotions honestly, and using “I” statements can promote understanding, empathy, and problem-solving in stressful situations.
Financial strain can cause tension and conflict in a marriage. It can lead to disagreements about money management, increased stress levels, and feelings of insecurity. Open communication and joint decision-making can help mitigate the impact of financial stress.
To effectively resolve conflicts in a marriage, it’s essential to practice active listening, approach conflicts with empathy, use non-defensive communication, and seek compromise. Seeking professional help when needed can also be beneficial.
Taking care of oneself is crucial for managing stress in a marriage. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, self-reflection, and personal growth can help individuals better cope with stress and maintain overall well-being.
Couples should consider seeking professional help for marriage stress when they find it challenging to resolve conflicts, when stressors become overwhelming, or when they feel stuck in negative patterns. A qualified therapist or counselor can provide guidance and support.
Building resilience in a marriage involves fostering open communication, practicing forgiveness, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing quality time together. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth can also strengthen the bond between partners.
To enhance intimacy in a marriage, couples can prioritize quality time together, engage in open and honest communication, express appreciation for one another, and explore ways to maintain emotional and physical connection.
Expressing gratitude and appreciation for one another can foster a positive and supportive atmosphere in a marriage. It can reduce stress levels, increase satisfaction, and strengthen the overall bond between partners.
Managing stress during life transitions involves open communication, support, and understanding. Setting realistic expectations, seeking outside help when needed, and maintaining a flexible mindset can all contribute to successfully navigating these challenging periods.
Flexibility allows couples to adapt to changing circumstances and effectively manage stress. Embracing change, being open to compromise, and maintaining a positive outlook can help reduce stress levels and promote overall marital well-being.
