It helps to talk about it – sharing relationship problems with a friend

Most of us find it really difficult to talk about problems in our relationships. How do you start the discussion?  Although it may not be easy to initiate the conversation, speaking to a friend or a family member can help you to unburden yourself. You may find that your confidante has been through similar issues and may be able to assist you with some ideas on how to resolve yours. Realizing that other people experience similar troubles can also help you to feel a lot less isolated.

Talk to a close friend

Find a close friend or family member to talk to. You may well feel vulnerable in starting the conversation, but you may be pleasantly surprised by the reaction, as most people will be flattered that you have chosen to open up to them. Most will be happy to offer you their views on your problems. They may have information that you do not, especially if your problems relate to specific subjects such as parenting, finances or health issues.

It is particularly important to speak to someone if you are being physically or psychologically abused. Abusive people often control their partners by isolating them. This makes it more difficult for the abused to seek assistance.

Remember that when you receive advice from a friend or family member it usually is not unbiased. They have received information from you which is one-sided. The advice they give you may substantiate the way you feel but it may also drive a bigger wedge between you and your partner.

If you have not yet found the courage to speak to someone else, there are several chatrooms on the Internet where people discuss similar issues. In this way, you can see what others are doing about their troubles and you can share your problem with others, and get advice from them.

Talk to one another

In the end, the best way to resolve relationship issues is for the two of you sitting down and talking about the issues at hand. If this is not possible on a one on one basis, it may be time to call in a professional counsellor who can help you both to get an objective view of the problem and seek a way to resolve it.

Professional counsellors are trained to look at the problem holistically to help you to understand the underlying issues and to resolve the difficulties that led to the relationship problem. They will ensure that emotions and pre-conceived ideas do not cloud the issues, and can help you to avoid similar hassles in the future.