Relationship distress can be a common problem experienced by those who are married. This distress can even reach a point where partners become profoundly disappointed with what has become of their marriage. Some may even question themselves and their relationship, asking whether they want to continue being in a relationship that may feel as if it is no longer working. If your marriage has reached that point, and you are finding it difficult to make changes by yourselves, seeking help from a licensed therapist can help.

Signs of Marital Distress

Most couples will face conflict and distress at some point. Disagreements can arise because of differences in personalities, backgrounds, principles, expectations, etc. When there is a breakdown in the communication between you and your partner it may feel as if you are failing in your efforts to resolve your differences. Without resolution, your marriage may deteriorate, moving from bad to worse.

A tormented relationship may lead to you partially or completely losing positive feelings toward one another, such as; love, trust, friendship, sexual attraction, humor, forgiveness, etc. Instead, these feelings may be replaced by contempt, withdrawal, disconnection, frustration, infidelity, selfishness etc. Unless something is done, your relationship may be at high risk for divorce or separation.

Recognizing Distressing Factors

Many problems start with partners who have different views of what it means to be married, experience difficulty communicating, and/or have difficulty with providing support. While things may seem great during the early stages of your romance, it can become unstable as time goes on and reality sets in. Stressors and challenges to your marriage may increase with time, particularly if you choose to have children.

Things such as substance abuse, depression, anxiety and/or even an extramarital affair – can throw your marriage into turmoil. These experiences can have a powerful effect on everyone in a relationship, often leading to feelings of loneliness and even depression. When left untreated, depression, anxiety and marital distress can have a direct effect not only on your physical health, but also on the general well-being of your entire family. All of these signs and symptoms can be persistent and progressive, with the possibility of continuing until your marriage eventually breaks down.

Seeking Help to Strengthen Your Relationship

No relationship is perfect. Everyone needs support and relationship skills aren’t something that anyone is born with. Marriage Counseling can help you and your partner to identify what is getting in the way of your relationship and find ways to move forward together. You can learn and begin to implement communication skills and conflict resolution skills that can transform the health of your relationship.

Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC contracts with licensed therapists with specialized training and experience in marital therapy. Marriage counseling may be one of the healthiest choices you can make for your relationship. Providers are in network with most major insurances including Aetna, Aetna State Health Plan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and many more. Call now to get started!

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