Problems can seem inherent in a lot of marriages, whether you have been married one year or 50 years. Marital problems can cause deep pain and hurt that can stay with you for a long time. Unlike other kinds of pain, nothing compares to the pain caused by someone you care about and someone you trust so deeply.

Conflict and disagreements are inevitable in any relationship, however, when they result in emotional pain and wounds it may be time to reach out for help. No matter how much love there is in your relationship, there may come a time when you hurt each other in one way or another. Unresolved conflict and hurt do not have to lead to the end of your relationship, counseling can help.

Ways to Know if Your Marriage Is in Trouble

It can be difficult to acknowledge that your relationship feels as if it is in trouble. There are times that things go on for so long that they begin to spiral out of control and lead to destructive behaviors. This may leave you feeling frustrated, sad and overwhelmed. You don’t have to wait until things begin to feel unmanageable or you are stuck in a cycle of resentment and blame. Many couples once in counseling say they wish they would have started sooner, you can.

If you experience any of the following, it may be time to consider couples counseling:

• Family and friends point out concerns that they have about your relationship
• You are feeling overwhelmed or unhappy in your relationship
• You dread spending time with each other
• Children’s behavior has changed
• There is any type of abuse
• Addictive behaviors
• Concerns regarding intimacy
• Infidelity
• Withdrawal from each other
• Constant comparison
• Hiding information or details from each other

Unfortunately, many couples are caught up in the unproductive cycle of hurt because they nurture the pain instead of finding ways to move forward together. The above is a list of things that some report noticing when they knew they needed help in their relationship. This list is not exhaustive, though it can help you begin to explore what you and your partner may be needing.

Healing the Hurt

People see their primary health provider for an ache or a pain that does not go away. If your marriage is hurting and you know it needs help, turn to a skilled relationship therapist.

Counseling can be a great place to begin to explore what is going on in your relationship. You can improve the way you communicate and express what you are feeling and needing. You can learn effective ways to resolve conflict and grow stronger together.

Carolina Counseling Services in Fuquay-Varina, NC contracts with skilled licensed therapists. Call now to schedule your first appointment!