Sometimes, just being married doesn’t guarantee happiness. And if the marital bond is withering away, there might not be much hope left. Here are 5 stages of a dying marriage and whether or not it can be revived.
There’s a point in every couple’s life where their once vibrant connection fades into obscurity. It’s a simple fact that not all marriages will stand strong. The journey from “I do” to “what happened” is filled with hard-to-swallow truths and plenty of emotions.
Understanding these stages of a dying marriage will let you recognize the tell-tale signs early on so you can work on issues when it’s easiest (and possible), allowing space to save everything you’ve built together.
Now if you’re thinking “My marriage is fine, I don’t need help,” then use this as an opportunity to learn more about how relationships work. Turning away knowledge never feels good when it comes back years later asking why you didn’t listen…
Related: How You Can Rebuild, Realign and Save An Unhappy Marriage
So, let’s examine why your marriage is not working.
Stages Of A Dying Marriage – Here’s Why Your Marriage Is Not Working
1. The Communication Between You Two Begins To Breakdown:
In the initial stage, couples may experience a breakdown in communication. They may find it difficult to express their thoughts and feelings openly or may feel misunderstood by their partner.
Having poor communication is one of the signs of a dying marriage. It can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and a sense of emotional distance.
Solution: Seek professional help to navigate conflicts constructively. Marriage counseling can equip couples with tools to communicate effectively, manage conflicts, and work towards resolutions that benefit both parties.
2. There Is Growing Resentment Between The Two Of You
If communication issues persist, feelings of resentment may start to build. Unresolved conflicts and unmet needs can contribute to a growing sense of frustration and disappointment. At this stage, couples may begin to harbor negative emotions toward each other.
Solution: Try to understand each other’s needs, expectations, and the reasons behind your actions. This can help find the underlying issues of why your marriage is not working.
3. You Both Begin To Disconnect Emotionally
As resentment deepens, couples may become emotionally disconnected. They may withdraw from each other both emotionally and physically, leading to a lack of intimacy and closeness. Emotional disconnection can make it challenging to address issues and find common ground.
Solution: Reconnecting emotionally requires intentional effort. Engage in activities that once brought joy and closeness. Regular date nights, heartfelt conversations, and shared hobbies can reignite the emotional spark.
4. There Is a Lack of Intimacy (Sometimes Physical)
One of the signs of a dying marriage is the lack of emotional connection. It often results in a decline in physical intimacy. Couples may experience a decrease in affection, sexual activity, and overall closeness. This stage can further contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Solution: Rebuilding physical intimacy requires patience and understanding. Start with small gestures of affection, communicate openly about desires, and be willing to compromise to meet each other’s needs.
5. You Both Begin To Contemplate Separation or Divorce:
In the final stage, couples may find themselves contemplating separation or divorce. The challenges and difficulties in the marriage may seem impossible, and individuals may question whether staying in the relationship is in their best interest. This stage is a critical point where couples may decide to seek professional help or proceed with separation.
Solution: Seek individual therapy to explore personal growth and gain clarity. Whether the decision is to rebuild or part ways, understanding oneself is crucial for a healthy transition.
Related: 9 Golden Nuggets Of Marriage Advice For All Loving Couples
If You Have No Hope For Your Dying Marriage…
Keep in mind that not every marriage can be saved, but at least figuring out where you stand with each other will make it easier to take steps forward with your own lives. Seeking professional help is always a good idea since they’ll know how to guide you through this darkness.
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