London - Although the lion's share of organisation often seems to be left to the bride, many men are adamant that planning a wedding is actually more stressful for them than their partner.
Almost one in four men (23 percent) say making arrangements for their big day was the most stressful thing they have ever done, according to a new study.
This compares with just one in six women (16 percent), who are more likely to be stressed by having a baby or moving house.
Despite not getting as stressed as men, the study found that women do suffer from wedding anxieties too.
The study revealed that friends and family are a major source of anxiety in the run-up to the service for both sexes. The most challenging task is deciding who to invite, with almost half of couples (44 percent) worrying about the guest list.
Staying within budget is the second biggest fear (38 percent), followed by keeping friends and family happy (35 percent).
Overbearing family members (24 percent) and interfering mother-in-laws (23 percent) also create more chaos than calm.
In some cases, such pressures can threaten to ruin the big day and get the marriage off to a bad start, the poll of 2 000 men and women found.
A third said pre-wedding problems made them “stressed and anxious”, with 25 percent struggling to sleep, and 18 percent arguing with their partner.
It even led some women to burst into tears and pile on weight as they comfort ate ahead of the event.
The study by Kalms, which makes a herbal stress remedy, found that moving house is the most stressful life event for Brits, with 37 percent saying nothing has caused them more anxiety.
This is followed by having a baby (34 percent), getting married (18 percent), and changing jobs (11 percent).
Money is a significant worry in all these events, with budgets being a significant stress factor for half the population when moving house and 40 percent when having a baby.
Other concerns when moving house include selling an existing property (53 percent), exchanging contracts (50 percent), dealing with solicitors, and organising surveys.
When having a baby, people worry about lack of sleep (48 percent), whether they will be a good parent (42 percent), and being able to afford all the baby needs (40 percent).
Women fear body changes (39 percent) and the pain of the birth (44 percent), while men are anxious about changing their lifestyle (24 percent) and not getting enough sleep to function at work (38 percent).
Having a baby is considered the most stressful event for 37 percent of 35 to 44 year olds, reflecting the current trend in becoming parents for the first time at an older age.
Life coach Sophia Davis said: “Our society has massive fears surrounding money after what, for some, has seemed like a never-ending recession.
“A good friend, coach or counsellor can help you to regain perspective on your situation and allow you to restore your belief in yourself to overcome your challenges and turn them into opportunities.” - Daily Mail