Relationship Problems
This page is for people who are experiencing difficulties within their relationship or would like to know more about relationship problems. From time-to-time every relationship has it's problems; it is common for couples to argue about money, sex, children, work and family.
Conflict is normal and can be considered a healthy part of a relationship, but there are times when couples become tired of arguing and need to do something to resolve their differences. Sometimes a relationship
breaks down as a result of infidelity or other significant circumstances such as redundancy, career change, relocation, family
bereavement or illness.
If your relationship has ended in separation or divorce, please click on our dedicated page on separation and divorce.
Signs of a troubled Relationship
Couples will find themselves noticing differences in their relationship that may cause them to worry that something is wrong. Signs of a troubled relationships can include some of the following symptoms:
- ongoing arguments without a resolution
- longer than normal silent spells
- withdrawal by one or both partners
- changed behaviour e.g. staying out or working later than normal
- a sense of walking on eggshells
- sudden unprovoked outbursts
- not being able to discuss needs or wants with the partner
- dishonesty or secretiveness
- loss of enthusiasm or self-esteem
If you have found that you can tick 3 or more on this list, then your relationship could benefit from counselling or by sitting down with your partner to discuss ways in which you can improve communication.
Helping couples with relationship problems
Couples experiencing relationship problems can be helped through their difficulties by counselling or by helping themselves.
Couple Counselling
Counselling helps by providing time out from your situation, and can allow new perspectives into the relationship. Working with a counsellor provides you, or you and your partner, a chance to think through what can be changed in your situation for the better. Counselling also gives a chance to explore difficult or complex issues in a safe and confidential environment.
You can come for Relationship Counselling on your own or with your partner; whatever you decide, you will be offered space and time to explore your concerns and difficulties.
Self-help
Communication is the core to any relationship. Many couples go into counselling, say that communication breakdown is one of the main reasons they have decided to seek counselling. Most couples, after they have had a few sessions of counselling, say that communication has improved as result using what they have learned about themselves and their partner.
But what exactly is communication? Communication can be described as 'the way we connect to other people'. Sounds simple, doesn't it?
Communication is a complicated process that can be easily understood by learning to use a comprehensive theory like Transactional Analysis. There are plenty of useful resources and books available to couples to help them with communication. We have selected a several below. We recognise the importance to improve communication in all relationships; as the way we communicate and connect with others, can have a major impact on our lives and the lives of others around us.
Useful Sites
We have selected several sites that provide further resources and guidance on relationships or common related issues:
