Warning Signs of a Troubled Marriage

Every marriage relationship is unique. However, there are some common warning signs and red flags that can indicate serious problems in a marriage. If you find yourself worrying about these issues, don't ignore them and hope they will go away. They usually don't, don't admit it, and may even get worse.

Instead, you need to have open, honest, and respectful conversations with your spouse to discuss issues in your marriage. Having a conversation can be difficult, but it is necessary.

Common warning signs of marital trouble

Every relationship has its ups and downs, but there are some signs that you need to study carefully to determine if they are the result of not working well in your marriage. Here are common signs of marital problems to look out for.

always criticize each other

Of course, some constructive criticism can be a good thing. But if you offer more criticism than praise, you're in trouble. Research shows that in order to maintain a good relationship, you need five (or more) positive interactions to counteract each negative one.

no more intimacy

Everyone goes through ups and downs in the bedroom. Not wanting to rip off your partner's clothes every night is no reason to panic. However, if the two of you are healthy enough to have sex, but if you haven't had sex for months or even years, there could be a deeper problem, such as a lack of emotional intimacy or romance.

don't like spending time together

Another red flag: You realize you'd rather spend time with anyone other than your partner. Spending time is good for your relationship. But if you've been making excuses to spend all your free time with your partner, you've already started the breakup process.

start keeping a secret

It's perfectly normal to want to keep something. But intentional secrecy—for example, you had dinner with a co-worker, found you attractive, casually hung out with ex-friends, or bought expensive shoes you didn’t want—is a clear warning sign that you’re in a relationship The relationship may be in trouble.