Relationships have their ups and downs. How you react to these changes can determine where the relationship will go. When it comes to relationships, you can never be too complacent. One cannot expect smooth sailing the entire way. At times, you may hit some speed bumps. Other times, a crashing wave can potentially ruin everything you hold dear.
The Marriage Marathon
This is especially the case after marriage. After this milestone in a relationship, issues and obstacles often face a far more difficult resolution point. One thing to remember is that marriage is a marathon – not a sprint. For a lot of people, marriage can span decades together with their partners. For others however, it can be a bumpy road. The first few years alone can be very difficult to manage. In fact, the first five years of marriage are often the rockiest and has the highest rate of divorce potential. Issues arise in these volatile periods that can often put a dent into the partnership. What will you do then?
The question then becomes – how can you make the relationship work?
Counseling and Changes
There are plenty of ways to help mend a relationship during troubled times. For marriage, this is especially crucial, as there are a lot more on the line. When issues cannot be resolved between the couple, an intermediary may be able to help. That is where counselors and relationship advisors come into the picture. Marriage counseling can be a great way to deal with issues, tensions, and problems that arise. A good counselor can find a way to bridge the gap created in a troubled relationship. They can form a line of communication that may not be available otherwise.
When it comes to counseling, a few common issues that arise are time and money. Plenty of therapists charge by the hour, and these can add up. Schedules also require a common free period for the couple. People with busy workloads simply cannot leave work on a whim. This can lead to cancellations, reschedules, and even more conflict around the household.
A Matter of Money
Those who are worried about the financial side of this potential solution fear not. Plenty of programs and projects offer free counseling to couples that need them. All you have to do is look. Government agencies, hospitals, and health centers often provide free counseling for couples in need. Click here and see how a third party can help with your current issues.
Of course, free sessions also have their downsides. The attention given to you may not be as focused as say, a paid professional therapist. Schedules may not be to your liking, and you may have to deal with plenty of other issues along the way. Privacy may also be an issue. However, attending counseling itself is a good first step towards mending. Either a marriage going through troubled waters can come out of it stronger, or it could mean the end. It is up to both of you to make that choice.