Let’s face it, a devastating wildfire was not on your bingo card for 2025. Nor was house hunting, wringing your hands over kids’ schooling or wrangling insurance paperwork. But here we are. It’s not surprising that relationships might take a hit. The hopeful news is it’s part of a normal and predictable pattern. You aren’t the only ones.

This article offers food for thought on what to look out for, a bit of insight on why it happens and ideas on what you can do to stay connected – even when you are both running on empty.

Our differences really heat up after a disaster, right? You might find yourself feeling more on edge or more sensitive to each other’s words. But it’s never been more crucial to communicate than during times like these, right?

You might find that taking a minute to focus on acknowledging each other’s emotions rather than jumping straight into fixing things can really make a difference.

It can be a game changer to just set aside time to chat openly and without judgement just to see where the other is coming from. Remember, this is all about navigating incredibly tough moments together, reinforcing that bond and trust that sometimes feels a little shaky. It’s all part of the journey!

If you're looking for some extra insight, check out this [video] for some handy tips on making these conversations flow a bit more easily.

Finding ways to reconnect is vital for maintaining a strong bond.

This [article] offers ideas for couples who might feel like they want to rediscover their connection.

Activities as simple as stargazing, cooking meals together, or engaging in community service can remind us of how much we like one another!!

From creating nurturing spaces at home to sharing hobbies to making plans, reconnecting can enhance intimacy during trying periods.