Many of us bring our jobs home with us, and the strain from workplace stress can have a serious negative effect on our relationships. Long hours, difficult bosses, job insecurity and other forms of employment-related pressure can lead to fatigue, irritability and emotional distance. A recent study shows just how harmful work troubles can be to a marriage, particularly within one demographic group.
After surveying more than 2,000 individuals in the United States and United Kingdom, Headspace, an online mental health provider, found that 71 percent of respondents said workplace stress contributed to the end of a relationship. The connection between problems on the job and at home was even more pronounced among respondents from Generation X, generally regarded as people born between 1965 and 1980. Within this group, 79 percent reported that job-related stress helped lead to the dissolution of their relationship.
There are countless ways in which the fallout from a difficult employment environment might weaken a marriage. Some workers use unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with job stress, such as excessive drinking or drug use. People who are angry also frequently redirect their feelings toward the people closest to them, because they are reluctant to vent their frustration at work for fear of being fired or demoted.
As Generation X members are generally between the ages of 40 and 60, it is no surprise that they seem to experience the most severe effects of work stress on their relationships. Many people in this age cohort are in leadership positions in their careers, which often come with increased responsibilities and pressures. The added stress of high-stakes decision-making and maintaining financial stability can trigger conflict with a spouse or cause someone to withdraw from family responsibilities. A Gen Xer might also be dealing with “sandwich generation” pressure as they seek to juggle careers, child-rearing and caring for aging parents.
With effort and lifestyle changes, some couples can overcome the toll that workplace stress takes on their marriage. In other cases, job-related issues intensify existing relationship problems and spouses decide it is best to go their separate ways. Should this happen to you, a simple divorce solution might be the best path so that you can avoid unnecessary conflict and disruption to your life.
As the Long Island divorce leader, Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C. can guide you through the New York marriage dissolution with skill and compassion. Please call 631-388-6009 or contact us online to discuss your options and how to protect your interests.