COUNTRY M ATTERS

How the countryside keeps my depression at bay

our marriage. We love being sociable, but we also enjoy cooking together or watching films. JACKIE: We’ve also got a shared love of adventure. Two years ago, we decided to take a gap year and moved from Putney to Hackney to work on a community project. We didn’t expect to fall in love with the area but we did and have now bought a flat there.

ARE YOU BEING ROMANTIC?

Act the way you want to feel: make a habit of kissing your spouse every morning. This way you will help create a tender atmosphere.

ARE YOU BEING RELIABLE?

Reliability is undervalued as a quality and hugely beneficial.

IS IT REALLY THEIR FAULT?

When having resentful thoughts, present the opposite argument to yourself. Often there is no right or wrong.

HOW HELPFUL ARE YOU – REALLY?

We’re all guilty of unconscious overclaiming, giving extra weight to our chores and failing to recognise what others do. Be grateful for all your spouse does for you.

ARE YOU BEHAVING LIKE A BEST FRIEND?

Married couples often treat each other with less consideration than they do friends or even strangers. Take an interest in their life.

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU BOOKED A HOLIDAY?

Planning time alone together is a key component. It’s about making the effort.

ARE YOU EXPECTING THEM TO CHANGE?

If you are, give up! The only person you can really change is yourself.