First responders maintain strong marriages in spite of the potential negative impact of multiple stressors including schedule conflicts, financial strain, and the threat of illness, disability, and death. Patterns of thought and behavior that are beneficial at work, such as vigilance, rapidly establishing control, and shutting off emotional responding cause problems at home, particularly when intensified by trauma. Excessive belief in a partner's heroism and the choice by some responders of dependent romantic partners cause other problems, as does the sometimes culturally sanctioned practice of coping through alcohol use or sexual encounters. Shifts in perspective that reframe common concerns more positively are offered. Departments are encouraged to increase efforts to support spouses and marriages, given the importance of close relationships to health.