Resources for Troubled Marriages

All marriages have good times and bad times. The key to preserving your marriage lies in not letting small issues develop into larger ones. That may seem overly simple when, in fact, your problems feel huge, but it forms a foundation for numerous steps you can take to preserve your marriage. ​

Just talking things out can help you find a middle ground, particularly when the conversation is guided by a professional. Counseling can help you zero in on the root of problems and dig that root up so you can move on. 

Affairs can be emotional, sexual/physical or even remote — they happen online. An emotional affair differs from a platonic friendship, but it can be easy to confuse them. Learn the warning signs of an emotional affair and how to defend yourself against one.

If you're experiencing problems, try to avoid throwing the towel in right away, at least until you try these tips to improve and heal your relationship. 

Get help coping with equality/submission concerns, finances, family planning, parenting, in-laws, remarriage, blended families, domestic violence, sexuality problems, gender issues, health concerns, pornography, secrecy, housework, stress, cultural or racial differences, and even sleeping together. 

Learn how to best handle it if you're having trust issues, difficulty in forgiving, adultery concerns, if you're wondering about change, or if your spouse isn't fighting fair. 

Learning what makes for a successful marriage can help you save your own relationship.

Ending your marriage is never an easy decision. Learn about some of the things you should consider if you think you've reached the end. Develop skills to help you deal with disillusionment, making plans and letting go. If you have questions and you're not convicted, you might not be ready to head for the door quite yet. 

If you're sure the end has come, see a local lawyer. Divorce and marriage laws can differ considerably from state to state so learn where you stand. Things like annulment, child support, alimony, and property division can be quite different depending on where you live. 

If marriage were easy, no one would ever get divorced and they might not even try it in the first place. But despite potential problems, getting married might be the most fulfilling and gratifying gift you can give yourself. Hopefully, these resources will help you begin on a firm foundation and navigate any rough spots.