There are many reasons why a California couple might find themselves in the middle of marital strife. A recent report shows that workplace stress can be one of the reasons that marriage is negatively impacted. Understanding the ways your workplace might impact your relationship with your spouse can help you be proactive about protecting your mental health and preparing for marital struggles.
The report’s findings
According to a report by a digital mental health company called Headspace, about 71% of respondents listed workplace stress as a factor in struggles in their relationships, with the percentage of those who belong to Generation X going up as high as 79%. When a person works in a stressful environment, the stress experienced by them does not stay at work. Instead, it manifests at home. It also impacts physical health, with about 75% of respondents saying it caused them to gain weight. The issues resulting from workplace stress can lead to substance abuse and mental health challenges that might also impact marital relationships.
Workplace stress can be the root of various divorce factors
Because workplace stress can significantly impact all aspects of a person’s life, it is connected to several common factors in divorce. These include:
- Emotional distance and conflict with your spouse
- Mental health issues, such as depression and suicidal ideation
- Alcohol and substance abuse as a coping mechanism
A successful marriage takes work and investment from both spouses. If one or both spouses work in highly stressful environments, that stress often makes it home with them, particularly if there is no supportive structure in place to protect your mental health at work. When this stress is impacting your marital relationship, it might be beneficial to seek out mental health support to help you navigate the stress and make a decision about your relationship.