Recession-proof your relationship
How to survive the credit-crunch blues
How do we manage debt?
Stay on top of things like credit card statements and bills.
What you can do:
- Be honest and talk about it. If it's difficult write a note or email to your partner.
- Choose your timing carefully. Avoid talking about your finances when you're tired or have been out.
- Work out a budget. But allow cash for each other's treats – chocolate or a bottle of wine for example.
How can we stay strong?
Cash flow worries can have a huge impact on your relationship. Stress can lead to a loss of desire so it's important to make time for each other as a couple.
What you can do:
- Go on a date once a week. Ask friends or family to babysit and do something inexpensive, look for special offers at restaurants, or just go for a walk.
- Give them a cuddle. Make it clear you don't want sex, just a big hug. It takes the pressure off and hopefully it will help keep things on track.
Credit crunch tips
There's a lot of free stuff on offer for families – museums, parks, galleries or just have a picnic or a kickabout in the park.
Rediscover simple pleasures like a DVD, homemade popcorn and snuggling up on the sofa.
Professional guidance can help – www.relate.org.uk. Or try www.moneyadvicetrust.org, an independent charity that helps people manage their debts.
Has your partner lost their job?
Anyone suddenly made redundant, especially if they struggle to find work in these tough times can feel low.
What you can do:
- Give them space. Don't keep trying to jolly them out of it.
- Let them know how much they mean. Reaffirm how special your partner is to you. Let them know you're there to support them. Reassure them everything will be OK.
- Encourage them to get active. This will get the endorphins, feel-good hormones, going.
- Don't turn them into a maid. Don't expect your partner to do everything if they're at home.
How should we tell the kids?
Knowing you may not be able to give your kids as much as you'd like can add to the pressure you might both feel when things are tight.
What you can do:
- Be honest. If they're old enough to understand explain that things are a bit tight with money but that they can still have fun.
- Keep discussions private. If you do end up having an argument don't do it in front of your kids.
How do we make the best of it?
Use the recession to your advantage. Re-evaluate your life and your goals. Perhaps you can retrain for your dream career. And get creative – think of new ways to save or even make extra cash.
What you can do:
- Brainstorm with your family. Think of ways to improve your finances. Maybe renting a room in your house or going to car boot sales.
- Use your skills. If you play an instrument or are you fluent in a foreign language give lessons to boost your income.