Marriage support book recommendations

[PragmaticWench]

My marriage has been under a lot of pressure over the last couple of years; two babies with health issues, severe sleep deprivation and also work stress for DH. Nothing unusual but it has left us exhausted, ratty with one another and communicating badly. DH copes with stress by retreating into his shell and it just doesn't occur to him to be affectionate. I'm the opposite and feel abandoned without affection and think it helps you get through the tough times together.

I fear we will drift apart and not be able to get it back unless we make an effort now. I have suggested counselling but DH has flatly refused to sit with a stranger discussing our relationship. Can anyone recommend a book we could both read and use instead of counselling? Something to work through in stages perhaps? Nothing too 'woo', we're both quite straightforward and cynical people.

The Marriage Book
This is based on the Marriage Course but the book covers everything. It has come out of a church but you don't have to hold any religious ideas in order to get the most out of the book.

Thanks, the reviews online sound good!

Could you plan to go on a regular date night? That could help you get it back on track. Time out to be yourselves again, then you can talk and get to know each other again.

Yes, I think a planned night where we talk would be good. Most evenings are spent desperately trying to eat, juggle the baby/housework/paperwork and get to bed.

Well if you can get babysitters your happy with then do it. Going out to the pictures and pizza or favourite restaurant can add more fun to your life together as a couple. Its important to remember who you both are as a couple and not just as parents.

Unfortunately not, it'll have to be the kitchen table but I think setting aside an agreed evening once a week could be good. The lack of any babysitting has probably added to the pressure over the last two years, there's just no escape.