With many of us getting caught up in a whirlwind of merriment during the Christmas season, it's easy for relationships to become frayed.
The festive season isn't only difficult for separated or divorced couples but for young families who are desperate to have the perfect Christmas.
Bernadette Ryan, a councillor for Relationships Ireland, joined Pat Kenny this morning to discuss what is affecting couples the most this year.
She said the most common problems people encounter are expectations: "For all families, there is this great expectation. People are under huge pressure."
She also advised people: "Keep your expectations grounded. Stay in the present moment. Children need your presence more than your presents."
Bernadette also stated that she had noticed an increase in clients discovering an affair over Christmas:
