Has what once felt like a fairy tale romance become a toxic existence? Disagreements are a common occurrence even in the healthiest of relationships, but conflicts that simmer and devolve into anger and contempt are indicators that your marriage is on the rocks.
Spouses who feel they are not respected by their partners and those who are no longer able to communicate effectively often live a lonely and fragile existence, whether they’ve been together a short time or for decades. But, it’s not always easy to decide when to seek a divorce.
Warnings signs of a broken marriage beyond repair
While couples can work through many problems that arise during their time together, an escalating list of issues can lead to an impending split, such as:
- Not being friends: Most healthy couples are both friends and lovers. Losing one or both of those connections could mean the relationship isn’t strong enough to survive.
- Excess stress: The thought of being around your spouse leaves you full of dread, even in casual social situations with friends or family.
- No communication: Not talking to your partner can quickly lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Couples who communicate know how to resolve conflicts without anger and resentment.
- Lack of compromise: Continually failing to find the middle ground can mean a lack of respect toward a partner, and without that, a marriage is likely doomed to fail.
- Isolation: Spouses in healthy relationships want to spend time with their partners, know what they’re thinking, and plan for their future. Those who live separate lives need help or drastic change.
- Lack of intimacy: Sex isn’t everything, but it’s part of a healthy and loving partnership. When one or both parties become unattracted or even repulsed by their partner, it’s a glaring warning sign.
- Diverging goals: Pursuing educational or career opportunities that are unrealistic while being with your spouse can be a clear sign that you don’t want the relationship to work out.
Plan for a brighter future
No one gets married wanting their relationship to fail, but the dynamics that created this bond can change over time. If you find that your relationship has more than one of the signs above, it may be time to assess whether it was meant to be.
The good news is that the future will typically improve by taking action, whether that means going to counseling to address these issues or working toward ending the relationship through a divorce. If you choose the latter, an experienced and compassionate family law attorney can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
