3 ways to resolve conflict within your relationship during family illness

Jess Bacon
·Contributor
·3-min read
Kerry Katona has opened up about not being in "the best place" with her fiancée after her mum's health deteriorated (Getty Images)
Kerry Katona has opened up about not being in "the best place" with her fiancée after her mum's health deteriorated (Getty Images)

Finding out someone in your family is unwell can be an extremely stressful life experiences, that can impact your other relationships.

Kerry Katona has opened up about not having “the best time” with her fiancé Ryan Mahoney, after her biological father passed away from cancer and her mother’s health is “declining."

“My mum hasn't been well, her health is really declining and it is worrying for me. It's hard to see,” she wrote in her column at OK!, and added: "Ryan and I have been arguing like cat and dog too so we've not had the best time. We're not in a great place at the moment. I do like to be honest when things are like this, though, because no one is perfect and everyone has their issues. I'd much rather be real about it.”

The candid mother of five isn’t alone. Dating and relationships coach, Kate Mansfield said: “Navigating a partner's parental illness is undoubtedly challenging, but open communication, empathy, and a commitment to supporting one another can strengthen your relationship.”

“By addressing conflicts constructively and prioritising self-care for both partners, you can navigate this difficult time together, emerging more connected and resilient.”

Mansfield says setting clear boundaries, practicing patience and establishing regular check-ins with your partner can help you both reconnect and feel value and heard.

It might not be possible in this highly stressful situation to eradicate conflict within your relationship, but there are ways you can support your partner as they go through this difficult time.

Here’s 3 ways to resolve conflict within your relationship during family illnesses to hopefully avoid them altogether in the future.

Sad Couple Embracing, Comforting Each other in Difficult Times. Family Overcoming Difficulties Together, Tender Moment. Atmosphere of Sadness and Tragedy. Moment of Human Drama
Navigating a family illness can take a toll on your relationship, but here's 3 things that can help (Getty Images)

Perci Health encourages individuals who have an ill parent to make sure they take care of themselves, and that their spouse is supportive of this. While it’s natural to focus on your parent, make sure your own needs are being met too. Take time to rest, eat regular meals and have naps if you’re struggling to sleep at night.

During times of family illness, everyone can feel quite helpless when it comes to supporting your loved one. St Richard’s Hospice suggests to ask your spouse for practical support such as cooking meals, loading the dishwasher, or making a cup of tea for you. These small acts of service will let you know that they care.

It can be important in times of crisis to have a good support network around you that extends beyond your partner and family. Good friends can offer you an outlet and offer a healthy model of what a relationship could be like that might help with conflict at home. Psychology Today have also found friendships also help you to feel independent and energised, and can offer a different perspective on your situation that could help.

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