Most of us learned to measure a relationship's health by its loudest features. Does your partner yell? Cheat? Forget your anniversary? Handle their share of the bills?

When a marriage reaches the edge of divorce, it's easy to assume the worst. You might think that the love has run out, that too much damage has been done, or that you and your partner are simply incompatible.

In previous generations, therapy was often seen as a last resort. It was something you did only when a relationship was on the brink of collapse or when someone was in severe crisis. The cultural narrative has shifted dramatically.

When you’re in a committed romantic relationship with someone, communication should be a top priority. However, healthy communication goes far beyond talking about your day or even taking an interest in your partner’s hobbies, career, etc.

A problem-solving mindset in a relationship might not seem like a bad thing. After all, you want to come up with effective solutions to resolve things as quickly as possible, right?

Everyone wants to feel validated, especially when you’re in a relationship with someone you care about. However, if you’ve been in that relationship for a while, you might be guilty of letting things slide.

Remember when you first met your partner? Chances are, you were attracted to them fairly quickly. Attraction isn’t always physical, but rather something that pulls you toward them. It’s exciting, fresh, and makes you feel good.

No one feels good about being in the middle of a conflict. Even if you’re sure that you’re “right” about something, the idea of being at odds with someone can be difficult. That’s especially true if it’s someone you genuinely care about.

Everyone wants to feel like they belong and that they’re accepted. That’s especially true in romantic relationships. It’s important to feel like your partner loves, wants, and accepts you for who you are.

While focusing on your partner is important, you can’t ignore your own well-being. That includes being kind, considerate, and compassionate with your own feelings.