If your marriage feels like it’s in trouble, start by naming what’s actually wrong: constant fighting, distance, a breach of trust, boredom or a feeling that you’ve grown apart. Many struggling marriages recover when both people stop blaming and start changing one or two specific habits, often with help from a licensed counselor. This guide collects our articles for every stage, from a rough patch to separation and divorce.
If you are afraid of your spouse or being harmed, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (or text START to 88788). If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 in the US.
At a glance
- Rough patches are common: most marriages go through low points.
- Look for patterns: contempt, stonewalling and silence predict trouble more than any single fight.
- Get help early: couples counseling works best before resentment sets hard.
- Safety first: abuse and addiction need professional support, not just communication tips.
Spot the warning signs
- 12 signs your marriage is in trouble (and what to do next)
- 12 things that ruin a marriage (quietly) and how to stop them
- 10 signs your wife wants to leave
- Lonely in marriage? 10 signs of disconnection
- Bored in marriage? 10 ways to fix a boring marriage
- Signs of emotional abuse in marriage (and where to get help)
Repair and reconnect
- How to save your marriage: 9 steps when it feels like it’s falling apart
- Rough patch in marriage? How to get through a hard time together
- How to reconnect with your spouse after drifting apart
- “I don’t love my husband anymore”: what to do next
- How to find a marriage counselor (near you or online)
Separation and divorce
- How to stop a separation (or divorce) before it happens
- How to win your spouse back after separation
- 15 things divorce lawyers wish every married couple knew
- Things to know before divorce
- Staying together for the kids: pros, cons and what kids really need
When something bigger is going on
- When your spouse is depressed
- Alcoholic spouse: living with a drinking problem in marriage
- Supporting a spouse in addiction recovery
- Infertility and marriage
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my marriage can be saved?
Marriages are most likely to recover when both people are willing to try, there is no ongoing abuse, and the core respect is still there. If only one of you is trying, or you feel unsafe, talk to a licensed counselor or a trusted professional about your options.
Should we try counseling before separating?
Counseling is worth trying in most cases, because it teaches skills you will need whether you stay or go. Choose a licensed couples therapist; our counselor guide explains how.
Is it normal to think about leaving?
Yes, most long marriages include seasons when one or both people wonder about leaving. Thinking about it isn’t a decision. If the thoughts are constant or you are in distress, talk to a counselor or call 988.
Marriage Bliss offers general information, not therapy or legal advice.