Husband Abuse Blog

When I was a young girl, I believe in a happy ending. I always dreamed of a love story that would make me feel like I am in heaven. I have this positive outlook regarding marital bonds because my parents were my example with their unconditional love for each other. As I grew up, I maintain a happy and positive attitude towards relationships, despite not working according to what I want.

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But after a few years of being married, I started losing hope that happy endings exist. I became a battered wife, and I get physically hurt as often as I could remember. At first, I thought perhaps it was another form of unconditional love that my parents didn’t show me. Or perhaps, the whole marital experience is too much to handle. That is why my husband feels pressured. But after another more years, there came emotional and sexual abuse.

With all the sufferings, I became unrealistically fearful. I got diagnosed with anxiety disorder along with depression and PTSD. I became miserable with these mental illnesses around me. I can’t explain further details, so let me try and open it up through these frequently asked questions.

How does anxiety affect you physically? 

Anxiety can affect you physically both in the short and long term. It increases your breathing and heart rate. That is entirely normal as the good effects of anxiety help prepare you to face an intense situation. However, if the condition tends to get too intense, you might start to feel lightheaded and nauseous.

 What are the main signs of anxiety? 

The common signs of anxiety include the feeling of nervousness, panic, increasing heart rate, sweating, trembling, and breathing rapidly. It also includes signs of restlessness or fatigue and trouble concentrating, and overthinking about too much unnecessary worry.

 What are the physical sensations of anxiety? 

Anxiety can cause several unpleasant experiences of related physical sensations. Some of which can come in the form of a panic attack that can be characterized by distressing physical feelings, such as ​ accelerated heart rate, trembling, shaking, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

 What are the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety? 

Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as stomach pain, digestive trouble, sweating, trembling, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and weakness or fatigue. It can also cause other sleep-related issues such as insomnia.

 How do you calm an anxious stomach? 

Home and natural remedies are proven safe and effective in treating an anxious stomach. You can Try herbal remedies or use some calming diffuser oils or incenses. It is also recommended to avoid caffeine, especially coffee and other carbonated drinks. It is important to find space to relax so you can practice deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness.

 How do you stop anxiety sickness? 

To some extent, anxiety can cause mild to severe sickness, leading to nausea and even vomiting. With that, you need to pay attention to your mind and body. If you can, slowly sip a glass of clear and cold water to calm yourself down. Take long, deep breaths as well so you can refocus and ease your mind from physical pain. You must consider changing your clothes and choose outfits that are comfortable enough and do not restrict your stomach.

 What does an anxiety attack feel like? 

Anxiety often gives you a crazy and weird feeling that you are somehow losing control. Usually, it gives you palpitations or chest pain. It also makes you feel weak like you are going to pass out at any moment. It makes you experience a choking sensation caused by troubled breathing.

 Does anxiety go away if you tend to ignore it? 

Though in some instances, mild anxiety tends to go away even without therapy and medication. Some severe conditions require specific attention. That is because chronic anxiety often persists and eventually gets worse. Thus, there is no way you can ignore it, especially when its symptoms are already affecting your daily duties and social responsibilities.

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 What are the five emotional signs of stress? 

There are a lot of emotional signs that can relate to anxiety. However, the five most common symptoms include:

• Always feeling on edge.
• Having a sense of unworthiness.
• Lacking energy.
• Being always unwilling.
• Having self-doubt.
• Getting too sensitive and emotional.

 Can your stomach hurt from being nervous? 

The effects of stress and anxiety vary in many ways. However, one common symptom includes stomach-aches. The mental condition can have a powerful impact on the connection between the gut and the brain. Anxiety can cause worse physical symptoms such as abdominal cramps as it affects the stomach and intestine-specific nervous system called the enteric nervous system.

 Can anxiety make you feel weird? 

Unfortunately, yes. Anxiety can show symptoms that you often can’t explain. The strange sensation causes feelings of tingling and numbness. Usually, you get to feel it in almost every part of the body. But commonly, you get to experience the weird feeling on the face, hands, arms, feet, and legs.

 How do I get rid of the stress in my life? 

Stress is inevitable, but certain methods can help you get rid of it. These include staying fit and physically active, getting enough sleep, taking supplements, drinking enough water, and eating healthy foods. You also need to spend more time with your family and friends, focus on less alcohol and caffeine consumption, and avoid smoke and junk foods. Be mindful of changing your lifestyle one step at a time so you can stay away from additional pressure.

 How do you know if you have emotional stress? 

Emotional stress can be quite different from what you thought it would be. There are instances that sometimes you will assume what you are feeling is normal. However, when there is too much irritability, anger, or restlessness present, and when there is a constant negative feeling of unworthiness, you need to immediately seek professional help.

 When should I see a doctor about anxiety and stress?

You should consult a medical professional if you feel that your excessive is already interfering with your daily life. These include your hygiene, work or school, social life, and romantic relationship.

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Takeaway

Despite all those heartaches and emotional torture I encountered for the past nine years, I still believe in a happy ending. But right now, I know it does not come from a marital relationship as I found my true happiness along with my clear thoughts, regulated emotions, and strong mental health.

 

Being in the marriage counseling business for many years taught me that women often served as glue in various households. When the man fails to do his part, the woman steps up and does the job. If the husband gets caught having an extramarital affair, the wife often forgives him and gives him as many chances as possible. That’s especially true if the couple has kids that they want to keep from having a broken family.

The thing is, statistics show that more women file for divorce compared to men. A few of my male clients who have experienced that come to me to ask why. Some even said, “I know I mess up all the time, but I want to change. Why can’t she wait for that?”

Well, I can think of many mental health-related reasons for that, such as:

You Have Exhausted Her Love

Regardless of how loving and patient you believe women can be, they are far from being saints. You may not always see it, but every awful thing you do chips away at their patience. Though they are smiling and enabling you on the outside, deep inside, they may be saying, “Go on and do everything you want now. When I get enough of your crap, we’re done for good.”

And that’s what genuinely happens when a man exhausts a woman’s love. Try not to be fooled if you gain their forgiveness quickly after one or three times. Your wife was kind to do that, but she was also observing what you would do with that kindness. The more you act nastily, the less her love for you becomes.

You Are Beyond Redemption

Some men with vices refuse to admit that they need to change anything about themselves. They insist that nothing is wrong, that all their drinking, gambling, or smoking habits somehow help them become better. However, no one else believes their alibis, especially not their wives, who look after them when they’re passed out.

If a woman leaves you in that state, it entails that you are already beyond redemption in her eyes. Nothing she could do or say would be able to save you. You can’t call her selfish, considering she has put up with you for years.

You Can’t Fool Her Anymore

My aunt is a perfect example of those martyr wives who remained with their cheating husbands no matter how many times they’ve learned about the latter’s sexcapades. It started with her husband’s secretary five years after their wedding. She let him be without confronting the man, thinking that he would get over her immediately. My aunt only called it quits when she realized that the mistress was already pregnant.

You see, a woman can merely be fooled if they let you fool them. Martyrs turn a blind eye on your mistakes while hoping that you will change. Getting someone else pregnant is a pretty done deal, so it’s not surprising if they want to end things with you because of that.

You Don’t Make Her Feel Safe

Messed-up guys sometimes say derogatory words with or without alcohol in their system. The problem is, they usually think nothing of it and act as if the woman was just dramatic when they seem to hurt. Worse, when the wife gets hit, the man expects her to forgive him, claiming that it’s merely his messed-up brain doing it.

In truth, physical and verbal types of abuse are deal breakers for a lot of women. You can cheat on them for as many times as you want, but hitting or demeaning them is different. When you no longer make them feel safe, they will undoubtedly leave you, even when you apologize repeatedly.

Your Wife Found A Better Man

Assuming your wife has always needed to take care of your sorry butt, it’s not impossible for them to look for another man who will want to take care of them. Some people call such women as flirty or homewrecker, but you may have broken your family first. She’s just making it official by divorcing you and moving on with a better man.

In that case, there’s no reason to fight the inevitable. You can’t do anything to win your wife back.

Final Thoughts

When a woman leaves you, try not to think that it is because she’s an ice queen or a slut or gold digger. Instead, look at yourself in the mirror and find out what qualities you have that are worth staying for. If you have a stable job and are an excellent provider and lover, you can question her decision. But if you are a drunkard, jobless, and mean husband, you should accept that she deserves a better life than what you can give.

Move on and give her a peace of mind then by signing the divorce papers. You will all be better for it.

Are you one of the couples who had to cancel their vacation plans because of the COVID-19 pandemic? Even if you and your husband want to hop on the next flight, it will not be safe to do so. Your travel plans should be best on hold while there is a risk of infecting yourselves and your loved ones with the virus. 

Dr. John Denninger M.D., Ph.D., says “Travel is a great thing to appreciate, to remind yourself that not everyone has the opportunity to do this. That appreciation has been demonstrated to be positive for mood and mental health.”    

However, there is still a way for you to explore the world while staying safe at home. Below are some movies which and your husband can enjoy to travel to various places and experience different cities. Enjoy!

Eat Pray Love

Travel To: India, Italy, and Indonesia 

Eat Pray Love is a book turned film starring Julia Roberts. Aside from enjoying three beautiful and diverse locations, the movie will inspire you to leap of faith to try new things.

The film is about an unhappy married woman who decided to leave everything behind and find herself. In pursuit of building herself again, she was able to enjoy good food, find inner peace, and meet new and exciting people. This film is not only visually appealing but also uplifting to the soul.

Before Sunrise 

Travel To: Vienna, Austria

One of the best things about traveling is meeting new people. Before Sunrise is a movie about two characters, who met on the train, and these characters then spent the rest of the evening together.

The characters got to know each other while walking and exploring the city of Vienna. It is not a surprise how the two characters fall in love while surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the place. If you are a romantic and love the idea of perfect chemistry and travel, try and watch this film.

Lost In Translation 

Travel To: Japan 

Lost in Translation stars Scarlett Johansson and Bill Murray. Past his superstar prime, Bob goes to Japan to shoot for a commercial. On the other hand, Charlotte is the wife of a photographer who is often left alone to explore Japan.

Set in the busy city of Tokyo, both characters were lost and found a companion in each other while discovering the culture of Japan. Watch the entire film and see how these characters survived to be in a foreign country.

Crazy Rich Asians

Travel To: Singapore

When you do not have a spending limit, imagine where and what money can buy you. Crazy Rich Asians is also a book turned movie that features the lifestyle of Singapore’s most elite.

The story revolves around how a simple girl found out and tried to survive in his boyfriend’s wealthy family. Get first-hand experience on how the rich spend their money as they enjoy yachts, luxurious beach trips, and parties. Explore Singapore in a new light while falling in love. 

The Proposal 

Travel To: Alaska

The Proposal is an unconventional love story. Usually, people fall in love with one another, get engaged, and eventually, get married. These events also happened for Andrew Paxton and Margaret Tate- only in a different order. Andrew is Margaret’s secretary.

Unfortunately, she is about to be deported. To avoid this mishap and in exchange for a promotion, Margaret forced Andrew into an engagement. The “couple” traveled to Alaska to meet Andrew’s family and eventually fell in love.      

Mamma Mia!

Travel To: Greece

Who doesn’t want good music and movie? Set in the majestic beauty of Greece, Mamma Mia is a musical featuring the songs of Abba. Sophie Sheridan, played by Amanda Seyfried, is bride-to-be hoping to meet her birth father before she gets married.

She decided to invite three of her suspected men to her wedding, surprising her mother, played by Meryl Streep. Watch the full movie and enjoy the music, the laughter, and the love the characters exhibited throughout the story.

Traveling with your significant other gives you new opportunities to get to know them better. While you are waiting for the outdoors to be safe, try satisfying your urge to travel by watching these movies. You might want to consider some of their movie locations on your second honeymoon.

Instead of feeling stuck at home, go travel the world with your husband through your screens, and stay safe!

In this day and age, women are already considered equal to men in almost all aspects. Women are now exercising their rights to vote, to get a degree and to earn money for themselves. Fact is that a considerable percentage of the working population is composed of women, in which some are leaders in their respective fields of specialization. Despite this achievement, there are some issues underneath that oppose women’s success, one of which is economic or financial abuse.

 

In a separate view, economic abuse happens when women (some instances, also the men) are made to compromise with the situations they are into despite their capability to earn money. This type of manipulation and repression is not discussed because of shame and the thought that problems involving money are very sensitive. But how can one identify that such abuse is endured?

“There are many types of toxic relationships such as a controlling or manipulative, negative, self-centered or narcissistic, dishonest, insecure, abusive, blaming or demanding and competitive, and secretive, and dramatic.” – Catherine Jackson, a licensed clinical psychologist and neurotherapist

Below are some clear signs:

 

No Choice Career-Wise

 

Women have no choice but to forget the career they wanted and compromise with the one that is available and convenient for the partner or spouse. Some may have full-time jobs, but in the end, they are forced to resign since their spouse or partner is not in favor of it.

 

Every Penny Tracked

 

In this situation, every cent handled by the woman is computed and tracked. If something went off with the accounting, emotional or physical abuse would follow.

 

No Accounts

 

Women experiencing economic abuse don’t have their own personal bank balances, debit cards, credit cards, or any other form of financial account. The woman here is left entirely dependent on her partner who has the sole control of the household finances.

 

Threats

 

Darlene Lancer, JD, LMFT said, “Power exists in all relationships. Having power means to have a sense of control, to have choices and the ability to influence our environment and others.” When a man threatens a woman to leave her and cut off his financial obligations with her, it is a sign of economic abuse. This form of intimidation pushes a woman to be vulnerable and to be in total control by the man.

 

The Lazy Bum and The Slave Worker

 

The woman, in this situation, is the one who is working and is the breadwinner of the family, but she has no control over her salary since the man is doing it for her. She is striving to provide for the family, and the man spends the money she earns. The woman is also forced to work overtime and even take more jobs to cover their needs, pay their bills and of course, her partner’s luxury.

 

Family Obligation

 

The woman or wife is always pregnant. Child-bearing and rearing will keep her from work, and compel her to become entirely dependent on her partner or husband.

 

How to Overcome This Situation

 

Leave Him. If things are unbearable and abusive, you must leave him. Plan it out carefully. Relationships like this are not worth keeping. As Jason B. Whiting, Ph.D., LMFT explains, “For many women, the safest choice is to just leave. As the brave women in our study shared, by finding courage and seeking out support from loved ones, victims of intimate partner violence can break free of abuse and build a life of dignity and safety.”

 

Reach out. Get help from your family, friends, and people close to you. Tell them what is happening so that you have support for when you decide to leave your partner or husband. If it does not help you much, try contacting online psychologists. (BetterHelp is a fantastic source of such professionals.)

 

Secure Your Education. To start with your new life, take a new venture. Enroll in an online school or finish the degree of your choice through a college or university.

 

Save Up. Save money whenever you get the chance. Once you’ve ascertained that your cash on hand is enough, you can make your exit.

 

Get A Job. Find a decent-paying job that you like to do. Keep it low key, though. As they say, let your success be the noise.

 

Establish Credit. Apply for a credit account and have it safeguarded in loved ones or a friend’s house.

 

Research. Research how you can get help from the government with your situation. You will need their assistance until such time you are finally able to stand on your feet again.

Someone who is in an abusive relationship will most definitely be depressed, distressed, anxious, sleepless or insomniac, and will manifest physical problems. It is also highly likely that your self-esteem is injured as you receive abuse, be it verbal, physical, financial, emotional or mental. This state of mind is never healthy and hearing all the time that you are a “loser,” “disgusting,” “fat,” “stupid,” and other hurtful words can lead you to doubt your worth.

 

“Being in an abusive relationship is incredibly confusing, and multiple myths about abuse can make it difficult to identify when it happens to you.” Brandy Parris, MA, LMHC said. You may have experienced such emotional and mental damage, and for some, it is challenging to overcome. But yes, it can be surpassed, with proper care and persistence to getting better.

 

5 Steps To Reclaiming Your Self-Esteem

 

Step 1 – You Must Include Positive Assertions About Yourself Every Day.

 

Some people read empowering passages or a quote of self-esteem every morning as they wake up. These assertions are encouraging statements that you can read and say to yourself over and over again to remind you of your worth. You can put the quote by your bedside, on your dresser, refrigerator door, bathroom mirror, your diary, and in any other place.

 

For example, you can say to yourself repeatedly – I AM BEAUTIFUL. I AM WORTHY OF LOVE. I AM RESPECTABLE. I AM FULL OF DIGNITY. I DESERVE ALL THE GOOD THINGS. I AM A GOOD PERSON.

 

Step 2 – The Most Effective Way To Gain Back Your Self-Esteem Is To Love Yourself.

 

“Self-love is not simply a state of feeling good. It is a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our physical, psychological and spiritual growth.” Deborah Khoshaba Psy.D. said. Take care of your body, mind, and heart. You may be fragile now, and it will stay that way if you don’t do something about it. It is a must to repel negative thoughts and feed your mind and heart with only right beliefs.

 

As for your body, you have to eat healthy foods daily. Rest at least 8 hours at night and if you can, exercise at least 30 minutes each day. You must also have regular checkups with your doctor to prevent the onset of physical illnesses.

 

Another way to love yourself is by engaging in fun and stimulating activities like writing, listening to music, reading self-help books, and the likes. Some love it when they are pampering themselves in a way like putting on makeup, doing their nails, soaking in a bubble bath, aromatherapy at home and more.

 

As for other people, you need to establish boundaries. What attitudes and acts offend you most? You must never allow others to overstep those boundaries again. It will be a challenge especially since your self-esteem is still low and recovering, but you have to put your foot forward. In time, you will be able to nourish your self-worth.

 

Step 3 – Find Support From Family, Friends, And Mental Health Professionals.

 

It is possible that your abusive partner or spouse “commanded” you to stay away from your family, friends, or to anybody who attempts to care for your emotional well-being. Well, this is the time to repair that connection and rebuild yourself. “If you have had significant issues around trust, safety, or stability in relationships previously, I think it’s important for people to have other sources of support outside of their partner(s). This support can come in various forms such as friends, family members, clergy, and even a therapist.” Jor-El Caraballo, LMHC said. Abusers are used to doing that because they have a hold on their partners or spouses, and in return, there is a dependence on the abuser.

 

Well, reach out to your loved ones right now and tell them what happened to you. You can also join religious groups for soul enrichment. It is also beneficial to speak with a counselor or therapist specializing in abused people so you can successfully restore yourself. If all else fails, you may talk to online psychologists from platforms like BetterHelp.

 

Step 4 – Avoid Abusive Relationships In The Future.

 

You have to see the red flags for yourself and decide not to get into a relationship with this type of person. There are warnings signs to know that your partner is abusive – short temper, excessively jealous, control freak, stalking types, and many more. If your feelings are hurt, if you are physically hurt, and if you don’t feel safe due to your partner’s behavior, then you are abused.  Avoid it.

 

Step 5 – Be Brave Enough To Move On.

 

Separating from an abuser is tricky. Some women submit after a few weeks and go back to their abusive life cycle. You just have to be brave enough to leave him (or her) out of your life from now on. Plan your life well and if you need help doing that, get that assistance. You have a chance at a new life. You must take it.

 

Physical abuse is the act of inflicting pain on another person which then results in minor or major injury or injuries. In relationships, it starts out with pushing, pulling or grabbing, something not too violent at first. It then escalates to slapping, punching, or kicking the other person. If the abused won’t do something about it, it will worsen over time.

 

Often, this is the case, especially in domestic settings. By law all over the world, hurting someone physically is a human rights violation. Thus, if you have been physically abused, here’s what you have to do:

 

Signs Of Physically-Abused Persons

 

Being afraid of your partner or spouse

 

“Many women came to a breaking point when the fear and the pain simply became overwhelming,” Jason B. Whiting, Ph.D., LMFT said. Since you already have that fear in you, you tend to avoid things and topics that might trigger your partner’s anger. As a result, you are too careful to the extent that your mental state is near paranoia. Walking on eggshells is the best way to describe your state.

 

Everything is just wrong. An abused person has this mentality that everything they do is wrong. You will lose your confidence, and you seem to live in distress all the time that you will fail your partner or spouse.

 

Kinds Of Physical Abuse

“Examples of physical abuse are behaviors like pushing, shouting over you, screaming in your face, physically taking things away from your grip, grabbing you tightly, squeezing, pinching, hitting, slapping, punching, biting, kicking, shoving, forced sexual contact, restraining, and destroying your property,” –Christine Scott-Hudson, MA MFT ATR

Scratching. Inflicting harm on someone with the use of fingers, causing scratch marks and even wounds on any part of the body.

 

Biting. Causing wounds on any part of the body with the use of teeth.

 

Slapping. This means hitting the injured party with the use of a forceful hand, usually on the face.

 

Kicking

 

Choking. Putting hard pressure on the injured party’s throat which causes difficulty in breathing.

 

Throwing. Getting things and tossing them around. This act can facilitate in hitting the offended party and cause physical injury.

 

Food Deprivation. The abuser is not giving or allowing the abused party food to eat.

 

Forced-Feeding. Forcing the injured party to eat.

 

Using Deadly Materials. Threatening the injured party with the use of materials that can cause harm.

 

Physical Restraining. Examples of this act are pinning against the wall, bed or floor.

 

Reckless Driving. Putting the injured party’s life at risk by driving dangerously to put fear on the person is a sign of abuse.

 

The Aftermath Of Abuse

 

The Blame Game

 

The abuser would reason out that you triggered the anger in him and it leads to the “situation.” Some would even reason out and attribute their behavior due to alcohol or drugs.

 

“I Am So Sorry, I Promise…”

 

After the attack, most abusers feel guilty for what they have done. They will apologize and promise not to do it again. The apology may be genuine, but you have to remember the following:

 

• Their behavior is out of your control. It is their responsibility.

 

• Abuse is not justifiable. No reason in the world can make the act of violence right before the law.

 

What to Do When Abuse Takes Place

 

“It can be hard to talk about abuse, as nobody wants to think of themselves as a victim.” Nicole Tammelleo, LCSW-R said. But once abused or if you believe that you are a victim of abuse, it is advisable that you should report the incident at once to the authorities. If you can’t do that, tell someone like your friends and family so that they can help you. Support groups and services are very much willing to assist the victims when it comes to intervention and mental health healing. Upon receiving a distress call, they would act on it at once to save the victim from further abuse.

In case you need a quick help, though, you may try contacting BetterHelp. An online psychologist is always prepared to accommodate and talk you through everything.

 

 

Falling in love is one of the most anticipated moments of almost every person on this planet – the romantic bliss, butterflies in the stomach, rapid heartbeat, and sparkly eyes. At some point, we all dreamed of having someone to spend the Valentine’s Day with, someone to greet on every special occasion, and someone to share every laugh and heartbreak. But at least for a while. All these feelings tend to lessen over time.

Why do relationships end? Why do love and happiness fade? Why does something that was once great turn into hate or merely nothing?

 

What Is A Seven-Year Itch?

It is the term used to indicate that when couples reach their seventh year together, happiness and excitement, if not lost, start to fade. They have grown tired of the situation, and their minds begin to wonder what could be waiting outside of the relationship. As Marie Manly, PhD explains, “There are many types of toxic relationships such as a controlling or manipulative, negative, self-centered or narcissistic, dishonest, insecure, abusive, blaming or demanding and competitive, and secretive, and dramatic,”

 

 

What Factors Can Trigger ASeven-Year Itch?

• Seven years is a long time to have spent with someone. It is more than enough to know each other’s weaknesses that we often don’t discover early on. During this time, both parties are already comfortable with each other to expose all of their not so good qualities and habits, like picking their nose and farting. We usually don’t do this at the start of a relationship, but when we are accustomed to someone, we don’t think much of what we should and should not do in front of them. Subconsciously, we are still grossed out with these behaviors, but we are too adapted that we ignore them.

 

• During this time, couples should have so many experiences already – disappointments and broken promises. Seven years cannot be all happiness. With all the expectations we set for each other, seven years have made us fail more than a few dozen times. We hurt each other, and the brain is made to remember. It keeps all our memories– the good and bad. The undesirable experiences and memories we had would trigger sadness that would make us feel unhappy and would make us think we are unhappy.

 

• Our world is bound to change, and not all of us are thrilled by it. A relationship consists of two different individuals who may have two different perspectives about it. Changes could be the technology, environment, culture, and people. One may want to try to embrace change, try new things and feel excited about it while the other one may want to stay the same and is not comfortable with all that’s happening around.

 

• We are naturally curious, and we don’t have satisfaction. We tend to think of the possibilities outside our relationship – What could I have become if we’re not together? Where could I have been if he wasn’t too lazy to travel? What if I was alone? Could I have done all this and that? What if we’re not together? Could I have been happier? All the “what ifs” are mind-boggling, and the need to answer them often overwhelms us.

 

• Sometimes, we are blinded by what we call love that no matter how wrong it is, we wouldn’t mind because we are head over heels in love with someone. We give up our dreams and the people around us for the chance of being happy with the person we love. Later on, we realize that this choice had led us to a miserable life. It will make us wonder if we have made a mistake, and we feel horrible for being stuck in it.

 

• If a couple has a child or children, it is the time when they are exhausted physically and psychologically. They have to change from being carefree into becoming responsible adults who need to think about all the necessities of their family. Sometimes, it is too much that one might want things differently and give up.

 

It is also the end of all exciting developmental milestones of the children, so during this time, parents would feel a significant change of being thrilled to become more subtle.

 

 

How Can We Avoid A Seven-Year Itch?

• Communication is the key to all relationships. It is important that our partners know what and how we feel. Sometimes, we are hesitant to open up because we know they are going to get mad, like if we want to try skydiving, and we know our partner wouldn’t allow. We would rather keep quiet and forget about our desires thinking it will pass, but situations like this happening repeatedly will suck the life out of anyone.

 

We also should be able to tell our partners our disappointments and pains regardless of who caused them, or especially if they’re the reason behind them. They should know that they have done something that hurt us, so they can have the opportunity to apologize and make up for it. Sometimes, some people are insensitive that they are not aware of the things that are happening around them. “Give yourself time to heal. We can be harder on ourselves than on any other person. Realize that fully overcoming the issues you had to face during your relationship may take time, and that’s OKAY.” Heather Edwards LMHC, NCC, BCC advises.

 

• As partners, we should be able to compromise. Remember that even identical twins have differences, and we have to accept that the moment we get into a relationship, there will be times that we’ll have different opinions about a particular situation or decision. We must learn to give way, maybe talk about having a system of how to deal with situations like these. Talk about the issue and learn to compromise. Listen to what the other has to say.

 

• Respect is important. No matter how attached we have become, we need to acknowledge the identity and existence of our partners by respecting their privacy and decisions. If your partner wants a night out with friends, let him be. You can’t lock him up forever. He needs socialization outside your relationship. Keep in mind that you are to spend a lifetime together, so making the other take a breath of fresh air is healthy.

 

Also, respect your partner’s decision. Never decide for him even though you think you are mostly right. You can talk it out, explain your thoughts, but never insist. You may be right, but that doesn’t mean his feelings aren’t valid. Learn to respect that.

 

• We should be open to change. It is, after all, the only permanent thing in this world. If our partner is hesitant about it, never move forward without him. Keep in mind that you’re partners. Instead of feeling slowed down, pause and try to help your partner understand and adjust. Sometimes, that’s all they need – someone to hold their hand while they walk through the changes. Maybe, they are just scared, and we are supposed to be there for them.

 

 

“Think about the old “seven year itch” and how the fact that even in times when marriage was deemed to be more sacred than it is now, a husband’s inclinations toward being unfaithful after a period of marriage was so pronounced that it merited its own name.” says Katrina Bilhimer, Ma, LMHC. Maybe a seven-year itch is just a term used when happiness and excitement weaken a relationship. It doesn’t necessarily mean that this will happen during the seventh year. It can happen on the first, third, or fifth. It may even occur later or never if we just know how to be in a relationship.

 

We are all humans. We are bound to make mistakes and be selfish sometimes, and a seven-year itch is just another bump in the road that mostly happens in 2,555 days of a relationship. It’s either you decide to go through it together or go on separate ways.