Coping Strategies and Mechanisms for Couples

When in a relationship, a couple can experience various challenges, such as psychological struggles or mental health disorders. In such instances, it is crucial that the couple develop coping mechanisms that they can use to deal with the situation. Notably, there are various coping mechanisms, including problem-based, emotion-based, and social support (Gurvich et al., 2021). In this case, problem-solving mechanisms would not be applicable because the illness is not something the couple can control. Instead, focusing on the emotional turmoil that comes with mental and psychological issues is the best way to cope, and therefore emotional-based and social support mechanisms are the best option.

Various coping mechanisms can be applied in such cases, including building a support system. Mental health illnesses or psychological struggles come with a lot of stress which can overwhelm the person and those around them. Supporting and caring for a mentally ill spouse can be stressful, and if not well handled, it can strain the relationship and possibly result in a breakup. As such, it is important that they each have a support system they can lean on and talk to help them relieve the stress, express their concerns, and provide encouragement. Notably, a support system could also be professional experts who will help the couple navigate the challenges.

A second coping mechanism is practicing self-care. Self-care has been clinically proven to help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety, better adapt to changes, and boost happiness (Rupert & Dorociak, 2019). By adopting self-care practices like physical activity, eating well, and getting sleep hygiene, they can better equip themselves to deal with the challenges brought by the illnesses. Other small self-care practices could include small acts that relax a person, for example, taking a warm bath, lighting a scented candle, going for a walk, and watching a movie, just to name a few. In conclusion, coping mechanisms for couples facing mental health struggles should be mostly emotion-based mechanisms. It is important that the couple focus on reducing the stress that comes with the situation to avoid being overwhelmed.

References

Gurvich, C., Thomas, N., Thomas, E. H., Hudaib, A. R., Sood, L., Fabiatos, K., & Kulkarni, J. (2021). Coping styles and mental health in response to societal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 67(5), 540-549.

Rupert, P. A., & Dorociak, K. E. (2019). Self-care, stress, and well-being among practicing psychologists. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 50(5), 343.

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