Reports say that as people are increasingly losing jobs, and being thrown towards forced retirement due to recession, their married lives are hitting a rough patch as well.
A large number of couples are reporting growing tension after one retires, or is forced to retire due to layoffs.
And researchers have said that job loss is pulling people apart instead of making them closer.
They have found that this could be because coping with the unexpected job loss can jolt a person's relationship as they spend everyday together, leading to irritation and boredom.
Psychologists have attributed the change in behavior among couples to the fact that any major transformation, expected or unexpected, alters life in unimaginable ways.
But people can still pull their married lives together by following some simple tips to reduce the tension, which are:
1. Redefine your job loss as a temporary transition and as a time to explore what you really want to do when the economy picks up.
2. Identify your connectors. Let everyone know what happened and that you are well and available.
3. Use your time wisely. In addition to job hunting, set aside at least two days a week to either volunteer or set up an internship for yourself in a place you would someday like to work.
4. Keep your stress level under control. Take up walking, yoga, meditation, reading, swimming.
5. To reduce tension with your spouse, initiate an "Expectation Exchange." This is the time to discuss your relationship and how it is being affected by your job loss.