Relationship Burnout Warning Signs

Hey Lovebirds,

Many couples will face hardships in their relationships. However, when you and your partner are experiencing a buildup of external stress it can overwhelm the relationship and lead to burnout. Burnout is a state of physical fatigue, emotional drainage, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.

It is common for couples to be unaware of just how much toll stress and problems are having on their relationship. Though, burnout can be challenging and painful to experience it can be reduced over time. The key to stopping burnout in its tracks is through awareness. Below are some examples of what to look out for in your relationship.

One

Every conversation is focused on the hardships impacting the relationship. Your efforts as a couple are focused solely on fixing the problems, leaving your connection overlooked. This can lead to a sense of negativity and disillusionment about the relationship.

Two

You begin to feel consumed by the roles you play in the relationship. This could be when you stop feeling like yourself and your entire identity feels limited to parent, breadwinner, problem solver or peacemaker. It can be constricting in any relationship to only behave within the rules and expectations of a role. You’ve lost sight of yourself and so has your partner.

Three

You stop being excited about sharing information about your life or even your day. The conversations about each other lives, hopes, dreams, and aspirations help to keep us connected in our relationships.When couples stop sharing information about themselves, they can unintentionally create distance and emotional loneliness in the relationship

Four

You seek other people as your first step to emotional intimacy, validation, and comfort. Though having a supportive friend and family network can be fulfilling it can be easy to cross boundaries and unintentionally violate relational security. Your relationship might be headed to burnout if you no longer prioritize your partner as the primary source of emotional support.

Five

Dating and spending time together has dwindled significantly or is not occurring at all in your relationship. Couples who stop spending time together for fun, relaxation, and connection might end up feeling more like roommates than lovers.

Six

Burnout in other areas of your personal life can impact your relationship if you are not careful. It is easy to allow burnout from caregiving extended family members and even work to overshadow the relationship.