Every relationship faces challenges — it’s part of the deal when two people bring their unique histories, values, and emotions together. But sometimes the question arises: Should we keep working on this, or is it time to walk away? Deciding whether to stay or end a relationship is one of the most difficult emotional choices we make, especially when love is still present but things feel broken.
Relocating to another country is never just a logistical shift—it’s an emotional and psychological upheaval, especially within romantic relationships. For couples, particularly intercultural ones, this transition brings unique complexities that often go far deeper than adapting to a new environment. The way partners handle attachment—how safe, secure, and connected they feel in the relationship—can heavily influence how they navigate this major life change.
Relationships don’t happen in a vacuum — they unfold in a larger social context, and one of the most influential forces in that context is the extended family. For many couples, the presence of in-laws can be both a blessing and a challenge. While support, wisdom, and shared traditions can enrich a couple’s life, boundaries, interference, or cultural differences can place unexpected strain on even the strongest partnerships.
When one partner in a relationship is living with a mental illness, it can place unique stressors on both individuals and the relationship as a whole. While every partnership faces challenges, mental health struggles can add layers of complexity, emotional tension, and communication difficulties. However, with mutual understanding, compassion, and the right support, couples can navigate these challenges and build deeper, more resilient connections.
Starting couples therapy can feel intimidating. Many couples worry that the first session will turn into a blame game or that the therapist will “take sides.” In reality, the first meeting is about understanding what brings you in, setting goals, and beginning to create a safe, structured space for open communication. Knowing what to expect—and how to prepare—can help you get the most out of it.
Grief is an intensely personal experience, yet it rarely occurs in isolation. When one partner in a relationship experiences a significant loss—whether it's the death of a loved one, a miscarriage, or any deeply emotional trauma—it can reshape the dynamics of the relationship. Even when both partners are grieving the same loss, their emotional responses can diverge so much that the very bond meant to provide support feels fragile or strained. Understanding how grief can affect a relationship, and knowing how to navigate it with compassion and awareness, is vital for healing both individually and together.
Emotional distance can creep into even the strongest relationships. At first, it’s subtle—a missed opportunity for connection, a colder tone, less eye contact. Over time, it grows into silence, indifference, or even resentment. When you no longer feel seen or emotionally safe with your partner, it can feel like the relationship is slipping away.
Arguments are an inevitable part of any close relationship. But not all conflict is created equal. Some arguments are healthy and even beneficial; others are toxic and damaging. Drawing on the research of Dr. John Gottman and the principles of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), we can better understand the difference—and what to do when conflict arises.
In the 1980s, Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. Les Greenberg developed Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT), a groundbreaking approach to repairing and strengthening relationships. Unlike traditional methods that primarily focus on problem-solving or communication skills, EFT dives deeper into the emotional bonds between partners. It is rooted in attachment theory, which highlights the innate human need for connection and security in relationships.
When a relationship feels strained, many couples hesitate to seek therapy, fearing it signals the beginning of the end. This common misconception—that therapy is a last resort—prevents many partners from addressing challenges early. In reality, most relationship issues stem from unmet emotional needs and attachment wounds, which, if left unchecked, can create a cycle of disconnection and conflict.
What truly makes us happy? Is it the gleam of material possessions, the thrill of exciting experiences, or the applause of success? While these can bring joy in the moment, research consistently reveals a deeper truth: the quality of our personal relationships is the most significant determinant of lasting happiness.
In relationships, we often talk about the importance of communication, empathy, and trust. But beneath all of these lies a deeper, quieter skill that many people don’t even realize they’re using—or losing—every day: mentalization.