About Marriage Problems
Marriage problems crop up for a variety of reasons, but they don't have to take you by surprise. There are a number of warning signs to look for that indicate that your marriage is in trouble. But don't despair; solutions that can help you and your spouse repair any damage that's been done and prevent further conflict are available for those willing to take the steps.
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Issues/Causes
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A number of issues can be at the heart of marriage problems. These include money, lack of communication, sexual problems, extramarital affairs and alcohol or drug abuse, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Other issues include pent-up anger at your spouse or disagreements about how to raise your kids and stepchildren. Sometimes a single event, like an extramarital affair, can send a marriage down the tubes.
Indications
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According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, there are several indications that your marriage is in trouble: While all marriages have good times and bad, a couple has a problem when certain feelings linger. When spouses feel disappointed, distressed or trapped in their marriages, fighting often becomes frequent and issues rarely get resolved. Couples often stop doing nice things for each other or lose that friendship and attraction they initially felt. Their sex life can become nonexistent. The site adds some of the most severe indications can be total withdrawal from each other and acts of violence.
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Domestic Violence
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Domestic violence plagues nearly 20 percent of marriages, according to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy site. It ranges from emotional and verbal abuse to hitting, slapping and other physical assaults. Young couples, in particular, are at risk for domestic violence, the site adds. Violence can start out mild but, unless it's addressed, the site said it is prone to escalate to the point of severe injury or even death. The Mayo Clinic warns to get out of a relationship if you fear for your life.
Considerations
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Marriage problems can escalate when you or your spouse starts complaining to others outside the marriage, according to an article in "Family Circle" on the Today website. The author notes that constant complaining not only spews negative energy, but it can keep you in a negative mindset, focusing only on your significant other's flaws. She suggests talking about what bothers you with your spouse, not the neighborhood, and steering clear of complaining about your marriage at family gatherings.
Solutions
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Couples who want to try to work out their problems can opt for marriage counseling. Marriage counseling can work to rebuild the relationship, and can be helpful when both or even one spouse attends. It is usually a short-term commitment that helps couples recognize and solve their problems. Even without counseling, couples can look at some key components that help keep a marriage strong. These include putting your spouse's happiness first, dedication to the marriage, having an outside circle of friends and support and sharing inside jokes and rituals with your spouse.
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References
- Photo Credit marriage image by hannahfelicity from Fotolia.com
