People rarely like to admit, to themselves much less to others, that they're going through hard times in their marriage.
It's far from comfortable to have accept the fact that your marriage could be in pretty bad shape.
The truth is, though, there is no such thing as a perfect marriage and every couple experiences difficulties at some point.
Some people may be really good at hiding their marital issues from the outside world and projecting a constant facade of happiness and affection, but that doesn't mean they don't have their share of problems.
Commitment and positive thinking are the secret weapons that enable successful couple to keep their marriages strong.
Sometimes, though, a couple needs a little outside help.
Don't hesitate to seek help if you and your spouse are having facing serious issues with one another.
WHEN YOU NEED TO GET HELP If you've been married for any length of time you've probably been through at least a few rough patches with your spouse.
Eventually, you probably straightened things out without any outside help.
So how do you know if the problems you're facing now are of a magnitude to warrant professional assistance or just another one of the lows in the natural course of highs and lows that make up any relationship? There are a few signs that your marriage needs some professional help.
You may have been going in circles over the same issues over and over again without making any progress.
You and your spouse might feel so angry and hostile toward each other that the two of you can no longer communicate civilly with one another.
Both these problems warrant seeking help.
Or if you just feel deeply afraid that your marriage is going to fall apart, that's not a "gut feeling" you should ignore.
WHERE TO FIND HELP Many couples have benefited from the camaraderie and shared experiences and wisdom to be found in support groups.
If you prefer privacy and feel your relationship would benefit more from some one-on-one attention, consider marital therapy or counseling.
Counselors are trained professionals who can give unbiased advice.
Since they aren't right in the fray, so to speak, they have a better vantage point from which to look at the underlying problems that are damaging your marriage.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU'VE FOUND THE RIGHT PERSON TO HELP YOU? It can nerve-wracking to confide in a stranger or to discuss your marriage in front of a group of people.
You want to be sure you trust the professionals you seek help from.
Meet with at least three or four counselors and check out a couple support groups before you decide on one in particular.
You want a counselor or therapist who answers your questions to your satisfaction and makes you and your spouse both feel at ease.
The importance of a good rapport with your counselor or therapist cannot be over emphasized.
As frustrating and frightening as facing serious problems in your marriage can be, the right source of help, combined with the love and commitment you two have for each other, can restore the healthy, thriving relationship you once shared.