A new couple show their marriage certificates. Photo: VCG

A doctor with an institute in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province has asked to work during the week-long Spring Festival holiday to avoid pressure from her mother and relatives who want her to find a husband as soon as possible, as many netizens showed their sympathy and understanding for the doctor. 

The request by the doctor, surnamed Lin, surprised her boss because the institute is closed during the week-long holiday.

Lin said she doesn't want to be forced to attend blind dates arranged by her mother during the holiday in her hometown in North China's Shanxi Province, or face gossip from relatives. 

Lin said her mother is always warning her that "all the good men will be taken" if she doesn't get married soon. Lin's mother has tried to arrange blind dates and they argue when Lin refuses.

Hu Jianbo, a psychologist at a hospital in Hangzhou, said Lin's parents, aged around 50 t0 60, are part of a very traditional generation in China, and their feelings are understandable. He also suggested Lin communicate with her family and let them slowly accept and understand that her life's decisions are her own to make. 

Many netizens expressed support for Lin, saying they also face similar nagging from relatives. 

"Marriage is not a necessity of life," was a comment that received many thumbs up.  

Global Times