On the other hand, many couples have improved their connections with opportunities to spend more time together.
We are also learning what this looks like looking forward.
While some have cherished getting to know each other better, others reported boredom.
Has your relationship changed in the last few years?
How Relationships Have Changed
We spoke withDr.
Basically, people have more time and energy to focus on pre-existing issues rather than seeing new issues emerge.
Sixty-six percent of respondents who stopped going to couples therapy did so because it helped resolve their problems.
Kaleb and Sierra are one couple whose relationship has evolved over the past several years.
They both transitioned to working from home.
They shared, It was tough to focus on us vs. everything else happening around us when everything shifted.
Over time, they report that they found balance with this, though it was a challenge at first.
For Sierra and Kaleb, they were able to grow closer over their shared values around safety and precautions.
Willingness to dig into these pre-existing tensions can create positive communication patterns and changes into the future.
Of course, telehealth andonline therapymight be the biggest shift we have seen in the past few years.
In practice, however, this has not been the case.
This increased accessibility has made therapy an option and has the potential to improve countless relationships going forward.
Going forward, telehealth can hopefully continue to increase access to care.
I see more people being direct with their wants and needs from others.
Increased self-understanding means knowing what you want and need from a relationship and being able to ask for it.
Going forward, many can continue to foster this growth.
Increased accessibility through telehealth has helped many make the best decision for themselves and their families.
2021;47(2):225-243.
