Some relationships come and go, but families are for life. They are the people who will stick beside you through thick and thin, but that doesn\’t mean problems can\’t develop within a strong family unit. Two long years of lockdowns and restrictions changed the dynamic for many families. Do your loved ones bicker more since the pandemic began? Keep reading to learn how to enhance family cohesion in this post-COVID world.
Understanding Family Cohesiveness
Cohesion is essential for all healthy, thriving families. It includes the different types of emotional bonds that form between family members. Every person in a family unit has varying wants and needs. Cohesion ensures all members feel safe and loved while still developing a strong sense of independence.
The Pandemic and the Family Dynamic
When the pandemic hit, life as we knew it came to an abrupt stop. In a matter of days, people found themselves stuck under the same roof. Parents no longer commuted to work, and schools shuttered their doors. As a result, families spent more time trapped in an enclosed space.
Instead of bringing families closer together, the pandemic brought many hidden problems to the surface. Parents argued more. Children mourned the loss of their social life. Finances became tight. Now that things have returned to a new normal, some loved ones struggle to rebuild a lost family dynamic.
Improving Family Cohesion
Spending too much time together took its toll on many families. Perhaps siblings said hateful things to each other. Maybe parents fought in front of their kids. Tension and stress became trending themes at the dinner table for many families. Even as the world opens back up, it\’s still hard to push hurt feelings to the side. But that doesn\’t mean your family ever stopped loving each other.
Here are some ways to improve cohesion within your family:
- Encourage family members to express themselves without judgment.
- Give loved ones enough freedom to explore their own interests and talents.
- Schedule time together as a family.
- Treat family members with dignity and respect at all times.
- Express affection both through words and actions.
- Actively listen to what your loved ones have to say.
- Develop shared values and beliefs.
Compassionate Family Counseling
Jessica Bassett is our Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Positive Living Psychotherapy. She joined our team to help bring cohesion back into the family unit. Jessica also treats other relationship issues, including marriage discord, self-esteem, and eating disorders. Every client receives compassionate, dedicated care. Whether you need a few sessions or months of therapy, Jessica will guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to get your family back on the same page? Contact Positive Living Psychotherapy today to learn how you can improve post COVID family cohesion.