![]() If you've been yearning to tap into your creative side, consider taking a sculpting class or ask a friend to check out a photography exhibit with you."Take up new hobbies, meet with friends, or spend more time with family - re-engage with people and activities you may not have had much time for while in the relationship," she says.Īim to participate in activities that help you reconnect with parts of yourself that may have gone unfulfilled in the relationship. While it's totally natural to occasionally think about your partner or the relationship during the break, De Carvalho recommends focusing on yourself instead and making the most of your alone time. Whatever your expectations are, sharing them ahead of time can help you find a common goal to work toward - and a 2021 study involving older couples linked having more joint goals to higher relationship satisfaction. For example, you might emphasize that a break offers an opportunity to focus on getting help and urge them to work with a therapist or join a treatment program. Note: If your partner has a substance use disorder, De Carvalho advises approaching the topic with compassion and being specific about your expectations. Taking some time to address serious mental health symptoms that get in the way of a healthy relationship, including severe depression, substance misuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Giving your partner space to address concerns that affect your relationship, like anger issues.Improving your work-life balance so you have more time for your partner.Set clear expectations for the purpose of your breakĭe Carvalho advises clarifying what you both hope to get out of this time apart - and what you want from your relationship if you get back together.įor example, your goal for the break may involve figuring out changes you both need to make for the relationship to succeed, such as: That said, these nine therapist-approved tips can help you make your break a productive one.Ģ. Ultimately, it's all about finding what works best for you. The type of break you take - and how long it lasts - can vary, depending on your situation and specific needs. But when no amount of discussion leads to a resolution, some space and time on your own may help you get some clarity on how to move forward. Trying to work through any relationship issues with your partner is always a good first step. Time alone to focus on personal issues like a stressful job or family situation.Re-evaluate your compatibility if you and your partner have different religious beliefs or mismatched goals for things like family planning.Time alone to address personal trust issues or your fear of intimacy. ![]() ![]() Relationship breaks are super common - and not just when dating: About 6%-18% of married couples have separated at some point.Ĭandace Kotkin-De Carvalho, a licensed social worker who works with couples, says some common reasons for needing a break include: If you need some time apart from your partner but don't feel ready to close the door on the relationship, you may find it helpful to take a break. ![]()
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