Of course, there are situations where one partner needs to change while the other doesn’t (for example, when one person is habitually cheating or wrestling with unfounded feelings of jealousy). And sometimes both partners are fine as they are, but they’re simply not the right match. So it’s not the case that changing is a guaranteed solution to every problem in a relationship. If you were arguing constantly and then the fighting suddenly stops for no apparent reason, that can be a sign that you’re nearing the end of your relationship. Conflict in relationships is an effort to create change — to get your needs met, and to feel understood, respected, cared for, appreciated, and loved. But after months or years of unproductive fights, people start to burn out.
At the same time, using technology in a controlled way supports face-to-face communication. Emotional support starts with making the partner feel that you are there during difficult times. Understanding and supporting the partner’s needs can increase trust and commitment. If you’re considering getting involved in marriage counseling, couples therapy, or relationship coaching you probably have questions! Get your marriage counseling questions answered, right here. As a marriage counselor, I believe that relationship rough patches are actually the path to growth.
Talk about the last time you both had fun and find a way to reawaken such moments. At some point in the relationship, the emotion and passion you feel for each other will dwindle due to other commitments you may have. However, when the thought of your partner’s touch irritates you, it means your relationship is in trouble. When couples don’t plan together, it can mean they don’t value or respect each other enough.
It’s not always easy to determine if your relationship is on the verge of failing. However, there are certain signs that can help you recognize when things may not be going well between you and your partner.
Communication Breakdown
But if the people involved aren’t even willing to consider another way of responding when problems arise, then fixing the relationship will be difficult, if not impossible. Finally — when the time is right — the best thing you can do is talk to your partner. But if these conversations prove that your partner can’t or won’t be more available to you — or that you can’t be there for them — then they’ll probably spell the end of the relationship. If these conversations help you and your partner become more emotionally available and attuned, then the relationship could very well survive — and get stronger. As with any difficult experience, it’s important to dig into the underlying causes. That’ll give you the data you need to either course-correct or come to terms with the state of the relationship.
One of the key indicators of a failing relationship is a breakdown in communication. If you find yourself avoiding important conversations with your partner or if you constantly argue without resolving anything, it may be a sign that the relationship is deteriorating.
If you find yourself making the “they’re just exhausted” excuse more often than you’d like, you may need to have a conversation with your partner about that. “Perhaps in the beginning, our partner really did a lot to make us feel like they were in it for the long-haul,” Ponaman says. “But something changed.” Sometimes these changes are temporary and sometimes they’re permanent. If you’re in a healthy relationship where there’s open communication, any changes on your partner’s end shouldn’t worry you. But if you find yourself making excuses for why your partner is now acting a certain way or why they’ve pulled back, you need to speak up.
Lack of Trust
Jealousy in small doses can be healthy and a sign that you’re not taking one another for granted. But if someone is overly possessive and seems to exhibit signs of pathological jealousy, these are red flags. It’s one thing to feel frustration or annoyance towards your partner from time to time.
Another red flag is a lack of trust between you and your partner. If you find yourself questioning your partner’s actions or if they are constantly suspicious of you, it may indicate a deeper issue in the relationship.
Emotional Distance
Emotional distance is also a common sign that your relationship may be failing. If you and your partner no longer feel connected or if you both seem indifferent towards each other’s feelings, it could be a warning sign that the relationship is in trouble.
Infidelity
One of the most obvious signs of a failing relationship is infidelity. If either you or your partner have been unfaithful, it can be extremely difficult to rebuild trust and move forward in the relationship.
FAQs
- How can I improve communication in my relationship?
- Try to actively listen to your partner and express your own thoughts and feelings openly.
- Seek couples therapy to work on communication skills together.
- What should I do if I suspect my partner is cheating?
- Have an honest conversation with your partner about your concerns.
- If necessary, seek the help of a therapist to navigate through these difficult circumstances.
By recognizing these signs and taking action early on, you may be able to address the issues in your relationship before it reaches a point of no return.
