All marriages have their ups and down, so how do you tell the difference between a temporary issue and one that spells longer-lasting trouble — and a potential divorce?
It isn’t easy, but here are a few warning signs that your marriage is really in trouble:
- You’re treated with contempt. Anger is one thing — but actual contempt is much more troubling. If your spouse doesn’t speak to you like you’re an equal, openly disparages you to their friends or generally acts like you’re somehow “unworthy,” that’s a major problem.
- You hear nothing but criticism. Constructive criticism that’s peppered with positive statements is fine, but your spouse shouldn’t constantly make unfavorable assessments about your abilities, goals or efforts at improvement.
- They seem emotionally detached. Your spouse should share your highs and lows. If your spouse has “checked out” and seems disengaged, that’s a big sign that the affection between you has waned.
- They have someone else. Your spouse doesn’t have to be physically involved with another person to have their emotional needs met. If they seem to rely on their “work spouse,” their internet friends or someone else for their emotional support instead of you, they may already mentally have moved on.
- They’re no longer including you in their plans. If you and your spouse seem to be living mostly separate lives while sharing a home, it’s increasingly possible that your spouse is already planning to leave.
If your marriage seems to have more “downs” than “ups” these days, it’s time to be realistic about the chances that you’re headed toward a divorce. Talk to an attorney to learn more about your rights, your options and the best ways to take control of the situation.
