Festive rows rising among couples in Blackpool, survey shows

Nationally, 44% of couples said they experienced tension or arguments last Christmas, with similar patterns seen locally.

The research shows rising pressure on relationships as December approaches. Across the UK, 1 in 5 are already anxious about spending extended time together this year, 1 in 10 had a major argument last Christmas and 8% had multiple rows, pointing to a seasonal spike in conflict for many households.

Now You’re Talking Therapy operates as a profit-for-purpose organisation, with 66% of its profits supporting its parent charity TLC: Talk, Listen, Change.

Money and planning are two of the biggest stress triggers. 1 in 5 nationally say they’re already feeling financial pressure, and 3 in 10 couples find deciding how to organise Christmas Day a “touchy” subject. Social expectations also weigh heavily, with more than 4 in 10 admitting they pretend to enjoy Christmas traditions, and 1 in 3 social media users feeling pressured to look happy online.

The Now You’re Talking Therapy couples counselling team says the findings reflect the growing emotional load many Blackpool couples carry as the festive season approaches.

They suggest a few practical steps to ease pressure:

• Start conversations early about money and expectations

• Use the 90-second rule when emotions spike

• Shift from “you vs me” to “us vs the problem”

• Have a daily 20-minute “stress offload” chat

• Regulate first, resolve second

Christmas doesn’t need to overwhelm couples, the team says — communication and early planning make all the difference.