Relate Guernsey, a confidential relationship counselling service, said it had noted an increase in requests for its services.
‘We have noticed a whole range of relationships realisations,’ a spokesman said.
‘For some, it was make or break time, some said that lockdown made them realise that they wanted to get closer to their partner, while others have come to the conclusion that they need to end their relationship.’
The spokesman added that lockdown had impacted on several areas within couples’ lives.
‘Issues with regards to jealousy, loneliness when things get back to normal and financial strain are again issues that we have seen.
‘More people are arguing and money worries are a bigger pressure than usual.
‘People are finding their partners more irritating, although some are finding the experience of having to stay at home to have brought them closer.’
According to a recent poll by Relate UK, another unexpected side effect of lockdown is that it has got people opening up emotionally, particularly men.
Of the respondents, 41% of men said that the pandemic has meant they have become more comfortable having open and honest conversations with loved ones about difficult topics.
Relate Guernsey said this was mirrored in the island.
‘Due to the pandemic, many have realised that their emotional bonds with loved ones has strengthened,’ added the spokesman.
‘This is not just with family but with neighbours and friends.
‘Lockdown has made many people experience first-hand the benefits of quality family time.’
In the survey, more than half of the respondents said that lockdown has inspired them to make more effort with loved ones in the future.
When asked exactly what lockdown relationship habits people would like to see continue, family walk or spending time outdoors came top, followed by spending more quality time with family and video calls with family.
Relate Guernsey said it was open for anyone wanting help with their relationship worries.
‘Relationships are the foundations of our lives and when they are in trouble, we are in trouble,’ continued the spokesman.
‘Although for some the pandemic has positive aspects, for others it has highlighted the problems, with those struggling to maintain one of the most important resources for getting through tough times.
‘There are people and resources out there to help – don’t be afraid to ask.’
. For more information, http://www.relate.org.gg/.
You need to be logged in to comment. If you had an account on our previous site, you can migrate your old account and comment profile to this site by visiting this page and entering the email address for your old account. We'll then send you an email with a link to follow to complete the process.