This time of year is often portrayed as joyful, light and full of celebration. Yet many people quietly move through December carrying stress, sadness, loneliness or a sense of emotional heaviness. If you find yourself struggling while everyone else seems to be celebrating, you are not alone. December can be one of the hardest months of the year for many individuals and families. Life does not pause in December. Relationship stress continues. Financial pressures grow. Family e

Conflict is a normal part of relationships, but for many couples, disagreements can quickly escalate into something overwhelming. What begins as a small misunderstanding can turn into raised voices, withdrawal, defensiveness or emotional shutdown. When this pattern repeats, it can feel confusing, discouraging and sometimes frightening. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. It’s Not About the Topic — It’s About the Pattern Most couples aren’t arguing because of the dishes

Every relationship has moments where things feel tense, disconnected or misunderstood. These moments are known as “ruptures”. They can look small, like a sharp tone or a missed cue. They can also feel big, like a lingering argument or days of emotional distance. What many couples do not realise is that ruptures are completely normal. What matters most is how you repair. Repair is the process of coming back together after a moment of disconnect. It is where trust is rebuilt, c

Even the strongest relationships face challenges. Many couples enter marriage or long-term partnerships with quiet, unspoken expectations shaped by cultural myths, movies, or what they saw in their families growing up. These myths can create unnecessary pressure and lead partners to question the health of their relationship when, in reality, they are simply experiencing what all couples experience: the natural ebb and flow of connection, individuality, and growth. Below are s

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