How we react in a pandemic offers some important information, she says.
When this kind of stress hits, the life-and-death kind, we react using our childhood reactive survival strategies.
And theattachment styles we develop as childrencan help paint that picture, says relationship therapistLauren Cook, MMFT.
You see that same response in times of stress, Cook says.
If youre partners secure, its unlikely their coping mechanisms for stress will impact your relationship negatively.
You dont want to enable those fears, she says.
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You want to be the secure source that validates that concern but doesnt feed into it.
This is honestly the most distressing pop in of response to experience, says Cook.
At its worst, this can look like having severe panic attacks or even suicidal ideation.
If the anxiety is in your control, you and your partner can brainstorm strategies together.
If its out of your control though, your partner may be able to help distract you.
(Of course, seeking professional help is always a great available option, too.)
It gives us very helpful data to see how our partners respond, Cook says.
Maybe we can compromise, and maybe we find that we need to take more divergent paths.
We can make healthier, better choices.
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We can choose to be in control of our thoughts and our behaviors.
With a little help from our partners, of course.
Now might be a good time tofeng shui your bedroom for the betterment of your relationship.
Plus, takinga few love tips from Kristen Bell never hurts.
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