My husband and I used to have inside jokes about everything and now when I try to be playful he just looks tired and when he tries to joke around I feel like he's avoiding talking about real things and we're both right.
More people experience this than they realize.
You've created a dynamic where lightness feels irresponsible and seriousness feels suffocating.
“Where Are You with Companion animals?”
If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.