Even with the best intentions, it can be difficult to know when to draw the line in relationships. It is often helpful to work through these boundaries with a counselor in order to care for yourself.
Family/ Relationship issues
All relationships and families go through difficult times and experiencing occasional problems and conflict in personal relationships is normal. However, sometimes these problems can become overwhelming.
SIGNS OF FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS
Frequent arguing
Disagreements
Breakdown in communication
Angry outbursts
Avoidance
Physical conflict
TRIGGERS FOR FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS
Difference in opinions, personalities, beliefs, values or goals
Change in family circumstances e.g. new baby, divorce/separation, blending families
Financial problems
Stress
Issues relating to sexuality
Alcohol or drug use
Gambling problems
The onset of mental health problems
Bullying/harassment
Natural disasters
Lack of trust/respect in a relationship
THE IMPACT OF FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS
Often family are the most important people to you so relationship problems can be considerably distressing and can lead to:
Negative emotions – anger, sadness, anxiety
Stress
Exhaustion
Confusion
Feeling isolated, alone or withdrawn
Lack of concentration
Difficulty eating or sleeping
Problems with friends, colleagues or your children
Using alcohol or drugs to cope or escape
THINGS YOU CAN DO IF YOU ARE HAVING FAMILY/RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS
Talk– communication is the key and often the first step to finding solutions. Be calm and honest about your concerns when discussing your problems with a loved one.
Accept your differences – it can help avoid unnecessary conflict if you can recognise that people have different ideas, opinions and beliefs and you may not always be in agreement.
Have fun together – even when things are tough, it’s important to find the time to have fun with your loved ones.
Make a plan – it can help reduce stress and give common goals to work towards. For example if you are having financial problems it can help to create a budget.
Get help – you may not always be able to solve your problems yourself so you may need some external help.
