How to Overcome Infidelity in Marriage

Overcoming infidelity in marriage takes time and dedication.

Regardless, of whether you or your partner have engaged in physical infidelity or developed an emotional relationship with someone else, it takes time and effort from both parties to repair the damage caused by marital indiscretions. The definition of infidelity may vary between couples and even individual partners. While some consider physical and emotional attraction to another person infidelity, others may not consider it unacceptable. While many couples choose to end their marriage after infidelity, this does not need to be case. With hard work, honesty and commitment, it is possible to overcome infidelity in marriage.

Instructions

1. Give each other time and space. After each partner has acknowledged the infidelity, take time apart to cool down so that you can discuss the issue rationally, without hostility, accusatory language or heated emotions.

2. Commit to ending the affair. If you are to overcome infidelity and save your marriage, the partner who has cheated should end "any and all interaction and communication with the lover," according to Mayo Clinic experts.

3. Find support, both individually and as a couple. Both partners may experience feelings of anger, resentment, embarrassment, regret, loss of self-esteem, anxiety and depression. In addition to working with a marriage counselor, each partner should work with an individual therapist to work through these personal emotions that come from infidelity.

4. Identify the problems leading up to the affair. According to Marriage Builders, partners often engage in adultery due to "a dissatisfaction with marriage that stems from the failure to meet an important emotional need." Work independently and with your marriage counselor to identify your needs as a couple and as individuals. Follow up by thinking of concrete things you can do to create a more fulfilling relationship.

5. Rebuild trust. After an affair, it can take time to learn to trust your partner again. Begin the healing process by being open about your feelings and sharing time together as a couple.

6. Exercise forgiveness. While it may be difficult to forgive your unfaithful partner completely, time and a new, honest approach to your relationship can help the healing process.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Infidelity
• Marriage Builders: Coping with Infidelity