A strong, healthy marriage is a wonderful thing, bringing happiness, stability, and security to both parties. Unfortunately, there are a number of things which can happen to make you feel like the partnership you began with such hope and joy, is falling apart. Here are five of the most common problems modern marriages face.

#1 Poor communication

If one or both partners struggle to share their thoughts or understand the other’s perspective, you can find yourself in a downward spiral of frustration, isolation, and loss of intimacy.

#2 Arguments which are never properly resolved

All married couples argue sometimes – that’s a perfectly normal and healthy result of two adults with their own opinions coming together to share space and make joint decisions. However, if you find that certain issues or themes are continually recycled and never resolved, you may be on the path to serious difficulties.

#3 Unrealistic expectations

You and your partner are only human. Clinging to unrealistic expectations (such as believing that your spouse should never disagree with you, or should never want to spend time apart) can cause disappointment, tension, and mounting frustration for both parties.

#4 Money troubles

Even the strongest marriage can suffer as a result of financial hardship, and disagreements over financial decisions can put significant strain on any relationship.

#5 Accusations of infidelity

Infidelity is an issue which can cause enormous feelings of anger, hurt, and betrayal, whether it involves an affair, a temptation, or even just a strong suspicion that your partner might be engaged in a relationship outside your marriage.

So what can you do?

If you feel that any of these issues are impacting on the strength and quality of your marriage, it’s important to take action promptly. Many couples find that marriage counselling is extremely valuable in understanding what thought and behavior patterns are causing problems, and identifying constructive solutions which benefit both parties. Ilona Nichterlein uses a combination of counselling and other techniques to help you and your partner figure out the emotional barriers which are holding you back, reconnect after disagreements, and recognise subconscious triggers which may be heightening your reactions to stressful events. Call her on 0411 046 175 for more information, or to begin your healing journey now.