1 Evaluate objectively the impact of any financial loss to ensure it is not exaggerated. Exaggeration can increase a couple's worries and add to tension at home.

2 Calmly discuss the situation and brainstorm for practical solutions. Talking about finances is not easy but it can help release pent-up frustrations. The key is honesty.

3 Talk candidly about what the crisis may mean to you. Why is it happening to you, and why now? Is it a wake-up call, a long overdue humbling experience? A timely reminder to change if success at career and finance has made you arrogant? Once you can make some sense of it, accepting the situation becomes easier and allows a couple to focus more energy on working towards goals and change.

4 Acknowledge that it is normal for one or both partners to be angry and resentful. A man who has lost his job may be feeling sad and defeated and may show his loss of self esteem through fits of anger. So be more tolerant of your partner's occasional outbursts as well and try to understand why he is behaving thus.

5 Emotional support can go a long way towards helping a couple ride out a financial storm. Be empathetic. Make a point of showing appreciation to your partner who is helping out, especially if you are the main contributor to the crisis. The helping partner can also be more forgiving and offer consolation.

6 Sometimes, despite efforts from both partners, the challenge can still be overwhelming so it makes sense to consider seeking professional help.

The tips are from Dr Ang Thiam Hong, a marriage counsellor with his own practice Edora Counselling Services

This article was first published in The Straits Times.