Man devastated wife wears jeans days on end in lockdown

The pandemic has had seismic effects on our stress levels, whether it be managing our finances and livelihoods in lockdown or protecting our public health.

For one husband, however, it seems his wife's appearance is the real 'sacrifice' in these times of social-distancing.

The anonymous man sought advice from a self-help column, revealing his wife of 20 years "has stopped wearing makeup or dressing up."

Along with the change in her sartorial choices, the man shares "intimacy has stopped" in their marriage, and all physical affection has to be initiated by him.

"Even showers are optional, sometimes," he adds.

Despite boasting an "extensive" wardrobe of clothes, the man reveals his wife now wears the "same jeans for three days in a row," affording him vague excuses for the change in her behaviour.

The confused man feels neglected by his wife's obsession with her job, and admits, "I get the feeling that she doesn't even recognise that she is doing any of this."

Seeking advice for his domestic 'disaster', the man questions: "Is this a warning sign of something?"

Amy Dickinson, an advice columnist, known by the title 'Ask Amy', points out the obvious: we're in a global pandemic.

Confessing she personally had "almost forgotten how" to dress for public occasions, Dickinson explains being socially isolated has been "extremely hard on many people – in ways they may not be able to recognise or express."

"Your wife may be distracted, anxious, and depressed – as many people are right now. (Her change in hygiene is one sign.) Urge her to check in with her doctor to be screened for depression," she adds.

Dickinson adds that initiating a romantic date that abides by social-distancing rules, such as a picnic with a change of scenery, will give the couple the opportunity to reconnect.

"Start to make plans, pointed toward that time when the world will be fully open," she says.