Unfortunately, many married couples in America face divorce for a number of reasons. Whether it's a partner struggling with addiction or simply too many arguments that have made you fed up, here are 10 common reasons that seem to be the leading causes of divorce. But to avoid this, we want to provide you with 10 healthy tips to help you fight it and to help you maintain a happy and healthy marriage. Because with a little hard work and effort, it's possible to turn your sour marriage into a happy one again.
1. Addiction
Whether it's being addicted to substances, gambling, or anything else, addiction is a serious issue that can take a significant toll on a marriage. The behaviors commonly associated with addiction can lead to financial strain, trust issues, and even emotional distress, making it impossible to maintain a healthy relationship.
Image by Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay
2. Lack of Communication
Poor communication is a leading cause of divorce. Why? Well, when couples fail to express their needs, desires, or issues effectively, it just leads to misunderstandings and pent up frustration and resentment. Once the foundation is ruined, a happy and healthy relationship can't exist.
Image by Armando Orozco from Pixabay
3. Financial Problems
Financial issues are often cited as a significant factor in divorces. It can be anything from disagreement over spending habits, financial goals, stress of debt, or inability to pay the bills. These can create rifts between partners, making it more and more difficult to maintain a harmonious relationship each passing day.
Image by Nattanan Kanchanaprat from Pixabay
4. Infidelity
In any relationship, pre or post marriage, infidelity is something that will completely destroy all trust, leading it to be one of the most common reasons couples decide to divorce. This betrayal, combined with all the emotional pain caused by it, is an incredibly difficult thing to recover from and usually has most relationships ending instantly.
Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay
5. Constant Arguing
Frequent arguments might be a strong indicator of deep-seated issues within a marriage. If you're repeatedly arguing over the same things without any resolution, it just leads to constant feelings of bitterness and frustration, breaking down all foundations of the relationship.
Photo by Eric Ward on Unsplash
6. Lack of Intimacy
Intimacy, both physical and emotional, is crucial in any healthy marriage. The moment one or both partners start feeling neglected or disconnected, it can lead to a deep dissatisfaction that will push the couple apart.
7. Unrealistic Expectations
Entering marriage with unrealistic expectations only sets up the couple for disappointment. Married life isn't all easygoing, there's going to be disagreements and challenges to overcome together. If the reality of married life doesn't align exactly with what one or both partners expected, it'll quickly lead to discontent and conflict.
8. Loss of Identity
Feeling like you've lost your sense of self or individuality in a marriage can lead to unhappiness. It's important for partners to support each other's growth and personal goals, but neglecting this can cause one to feel trapped or resentful.
9. Getting Married at an Early Age
Marrying too young can be a big contributing factor in divorce. Young couples who haven't fully developed their personal or financial identities yet might be overwhelmed with the challenges that come with marriage, leading to issues as they grow and change over time.
Image by Victoria from Pixabay
10. Differences in Parenting Styles
Once kids are in the picture, there's another hurdle that couples may have to overcome: differences in parenting styles. Disagreements on how to raise your children can be a major source of conflict in a marriage, even leading to divorce. It can lead to many arguments and pent up resentment, sadly not just impacting your marriage, but also the well-being of the children.
Image by 🌸♡💙♡🌸 Julita 🌸♡💙♡🌸 from Pixabay
1. Open Communication
To maintain a healthy and happy marriage, regular and open communication is absolutely vital. It's crucial for understanding each other's needs, wants, and resolving conflicts. You should always try to encourage honest and respectful dialogue about feelings, expectations, and concerns, and building a safe and comfortable environment to do so in.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
2. Financial Transparency
Money is a major topic when it comes to married couples, and being open and honest is the only way to go about it. Don't lie about any of your debts, savings, or spending habits because it will only create misunderstandings and conflicts. Work together to achieve your financial goals, and budget in a way that both of you agree on.
Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash
3. Prioritize Intimacy
Maintaining emotional and physical intimacy is key to a lasting relationship where both parties feel loved and satisfied. Regularly set time aside for date nights, affection, and meaningful conversations that will help keep the connection strong and the marriage happy.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
4. Conflict Resolution Skills
There's no doubt that married couples will faces plenty of arguments and challenges they need to overcome. But learning and practicing healthy conflict resolution techniques can transform these arguments into opportunities for growth. Instead of focusing on winning fights, focus on finding solutions where both sides can be happy.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
5. Shared Goals and Values
Before you get married and even during, it's important to have long and deep discussions on your key values and life goals. Having shared ideals can help create a strong foundation for your relationship; you should regularly discuss your dreams, career aspirations, and family plans so that you know you're both heading in the same direction.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
6. Mutual Respect and Appreciation
Don't get lazy in your relationship - show regular expressions of respect and appreciation for each other! Doing so can really reinforce your bond and love for one another. Acknowledge your partner's contributions and achievements, so you can both thrive in this supportive marriage.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
7. Flexibility and Compromise
Being in a relationship or marriage means being willing to compromise and adapt to changes that can help both parties overcome challenges. It's important to recognize that change is a part of life, and being flexible is what makes navigating life's ups and downs easier for a couple.
Image by Oleksandr Pyrohov from Pixabay
8. Quality Time Together
Just because you're married doesn't mean you can't do cute things together like when you were dating! Spending quality time together is what keeps the relationship fresh and exciting. Try participating in shared hobbies, interests, or new activities together to keep that connection strong.
9. Individual Growth and Independence
Supporting each other's personal growth and independence strengthens a relationship. Encourage your partner to pursue their interests and goals, understanding that individual fulfillment contributes to a happy partnership.
10. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If things start getting rough, never hesitate to seek counseling or therapy. A professional can provide you both with an unbiased perspective and guidance towards improved communication and conflict resolution. If you want to maintain your marriage, it never hurts to reach out for help.
