How to Cope with Marriage Problems

Two people get married and plan to spend the rest of their lives together, blissfully in love. Often during this early stage of marriage not much thought is given to conflict resolution and handling differences long term. Differences related to finances and general life planning can have a lasting impact on a marriage if communication and conflict resolution skills are not developed and practiced. By taking the time to learn to communicate well with each other, and knowing when to seek professional help, most marriage problems can be coped with and worked through.

Instructions

• 1

  Accept the things you cannot change. Some things about your partner will always irritate you. Instead of letting these little things continue to bother you, resolve to let them go.

• 2

  Discuss relationship issues when you are in a positive mood. Do not talk about important or tough issues when you or your spouse is tired or overly stressed. Put thought into what you want to say and how you want to say it. Keep your cool through out the conversation.

• 3

  List the positive, both to your spouse and to yourself. Concentrate your thoughts on what is good in the relationship and what you can do to make it better. Do not focus on your complaints or place blame. Remember that the goal is for both you and your spouse to be happy; compromise so you both win.

• 4

  Get professional help. If communication issues cannot be resolved or you feel that you are getting nowhere in your discussion, consider seeking the guidance of a professional counselor, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Marriage counselors are highly trained in handling all types of problem in marriages and can guide you through conflict resolution and better communication with your spouse.