Two Signs That Indicate It’s Time To End A Troubled Relationship

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by Anna Brech |
Published on

When you're stuck in a languishing relationship, it can be hard to know what to do.

On the one hand, you've both invested a lot of time and love into the partnership. And you've had your fun, giddily happy times.

On the other, you've reached a point where you can't stop bickering about stupid things and the happiness you once shared seems impossibly out of reach.

You could hold on, hoping that this is a bump in the road and things will get better. Or you could call it quits, squaring up to the anguish of heartache and striking out alone.

There are, however, a few glaring red lights that suggest any chance of resolving things is futile.

Regular and ongoing fallouts over money is one such sign, according to Australia-based relationships expert Bella Elwood-Clayton.

"Differing financial values and the stress incurred from consumer debt and partner materialism. These are a top reason for divorce," she tells the Mail.

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Money can be a major source of stress in relationships ©Getty

A 2009 study from Utah State University found that couples who report disagreeing about finance once a week are over 30 percent more likely to get divorced than couples who report disagreeing about finances a few times a month.

Another signal that it could be time to call it quits is when you argue about the same things, time and again.

"If the same fight keeps cropping up, tend to your damn soil," says Elwood-Clayton. "Although conflict is part of any long-term relationship, be aware of intensity and frequency."

Criticism and anger levied at your partner - even in the context of everyday arguments - can have a corrosive effect.

A 2003 survey of 373 newlywed couples illuminates this, showing that those who shouted at each other, showed contempt and shut down conversations within the first year of marriage were more likely to divorce up to 16 years later.

Take heed of how often you argue and what about. It could give you the lead you need in deciding whether to end things.

Read More: Five Things That Happen To Every Long-Term Couple, According To Science

Read More: This Is The Biggest Deal-Breaker In A Relationship

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