How the Pandemic Strained Relationships—and What Helps Them Last

The global COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainty, financial strain, and intense stress for many couples. Previously seeing each other just a few hours a day, partners were suddenly together 24/7—often working side-by-side—while gym time and friend meetups gave way to tracking daily case numbers on the news. With layoffs, business closures, and unpredictability mounting, relationships buckled under the pressure.

Stress activates the amygdala (our emotional alarm system), often disconnecting it from the prefrontal cortex (logical thinking centre), leading to impulsive decisions and regretted actions—even with good intentions.

Australian divorce stats reflected this with rates rising 14% in 2021 from 2020, post-lockdowns.

My tips to prevent divorce and build a solid marriage:

• Apologise and own up—we all say or do things we don't mean.

• Have fun together (shared hobbies release oxytocin, the bonding hormone).

• Understand each other's values and meet in the middle.

• Schedule regular 1-on-1 time.

• Prioritise physical touch (more oxytocin!).

• Be open about struggles before they build up.

• Communicate calmly, without raised voices.

• Seek couples counselling for a safe space to discuss concerns.