How to Recognize the Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship and Move Forward

Every couple deals with conflicts on occasion. They might even enjoy an occasional timeout individually or together to escape daily tensions. However, sometimes, a relationship is just unhealthy. Here are some indicators that your relationship may be dealing with serious problems that signal an impending breakup.

Frequent Arguments

When you find yourself disagreeing with your spouse on numerous issues, that can be a warning sign of a splintering union. Of course, it might mean that various factors are affecting your family or home, and problems at work might also be to blame. But when it becomes increasingly difficult to find common ground with your loved one, you may want to consider professional relationship counseling to try and work through the challenges.

Lack of Communication

Sometimes, couples are unable to talk about anything in a meaningful way. Communication can become terse and snappish with limited productivity. Conflicts seldom get resolved. One or both persons might avoid interacting with the other to prevent temper flare ups. Important discussions often break down into cold accusations, offhand joking, or gaslighting along with other counterproductive attitudes. You might find that it is almost impossible to get consensus and move forward on key initiatives.

Boredom

Over time, people grow physically and mentally. They change their daily activities, friends, and habits. In a relationship, one or both people might find the other one’s former or new behaviors to be uninteresting or even off putting. They can become disconnected from each other and stop enjoying each other’s companionship. If that happens, the pair can quickly grow apart and perhaps become interested in other people they find attractive or exciting.

Separate Interests

Even when a relationship is going well in general, sometimes the couple will develop individual interests or goals that take them in different directions. One might want to start archery lessons while the other is interested in hang gliding. Often, the different interests do not create problems, but when they do, the effect can drive a wedge between the pair.

Moving Forward

When a marriage is hitting the rocks, it could help to talk to a divorce lawyer with your questions and concerns. The lawyer can explain some options that may be helpful, such as couples’ arbitration and a trial separation before making a divorce decision. The divorce lawyer can explain your legal rights and responsibilities in taking time out from your marriage as well as how to prepare for a divorce proceeding if it comes to that.

Assess your marriage if you notice unhealthy signs of deterioration. Talk to a marriage counselor or a divorce lawyer for professional advice before things get more complicated.