7 tips for married couples during quarantine

The threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has placed a lot of married couples in an unusual situation.

With the enhanced community quarantine enforced in Luzon and variations thereof in other parts of the country, a lot of married couples are spending more time at home, which means there's a bigger chance of face-to-face conflict.

In an episode of "Sumbungan ng Bayan," GMA News asked counselor Amy Muga for tips on how couples can peacefully set their differences aside for the benefit of the whole family during this quarantine period.

1. Assess the situation and how it's affecting others

It's important to know what the other is feeling, Muga says.

A couple should also understand that the family is going into a "new normal," which might not include the activities and interaction each of them are accustomed to.

Moreover, a simple disagreement over a household chore or a heated argument at the table might be making other people in the house uncomfortable, especially the kids.

2. Help each other out as a family

Muga strongly recommends family sharing sessions during the quarantine period.

Not everybody might be open to the idea of talking about problems but, with group discussions, a household can overcome those problems and get through the crisis as a family.

3. Know each other's strengths

For Muga, the quarantine period is a good time to "highlight the strengths" of each member of the family.

“Magandang simulan 'yun kung di pa nasisimulan. Kilalanin 'yung kalakasan ng bawat isa -- Lalo na sa mag-asawa,” the counselor said.

4. Be fair in dividing household chores

A fair division of chores among family members is one way of avoiding tension from building up in the home.

Want a tip? Parents can ask their kids what they're more comfortable in doing around the house.

5. Self-care is important

Know what you're feeling. Muga advises couples not to overlook self-care, not just physically but also mentally. 

"Sabi nga ng marami: It's okay not to be okay at this time, kasi nga hindi normal 'yung sitwasyon," she explains.

6. Fighting over political views? The key is respect

Arguments over contrasting political views can create a lot of tension between family members.

At times like these, Muga would everybody not to lose their respect for one another, and think carefully whether winning the argument is worth hurting a loved one's feelings.

"Ito ba ay napakahalagang i-inisist? Napakalahalag bang makuha o malaman na ikaw 'yung nanaig dito sa diskusyon. Ang mangayayari lang noon ay merong babaunin araw-araw na sama ng loob 'yung mahal mo sa buhay," Muga explains.

"So ano ba yung mas mahalaga sa inyo, yung politika mo ba o yung pagmamahal ng isang minamahal mo rin?"

7. Please extend your patience

"This is not an ordinary time," Muga stressed.

Even with frequent disagreements, it is still the duty of husband and wife to make sure the family stays whole.

It's only best for the family to get along with one another as many areas in the country are still under lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19. — Margaret Claire Layug/LA, GMA News