When a relationship starts to feel strained or unstable, seeking help is a powerful step toward healing. Whether you’re facing ongoing conflict, emotional distance or an immediate crisis, support is available. While traditional marriage counseling can be effective, many people in distress are looking for immediate resources, crisis intervention or guidance on where to turn next.
This page offers guidance on how to recognize serious relationship stress, how to access help (both free and paid) and how to get connected to qualified, trustworthy professionals who can help.
The Mental Health Hotline is here to help individuals in crisis, including those impacted by relationship distress, emotional abuse or mental health challenges within the partnership. We don’t provide couples counseling, but we can connect you with trusted local resources and support.
Signs Your Relationship May Need Help
Every relationship experiences ups and downs, but certain red flags may signal deeper issues that require professional attention:
- Control or coercion. One partner dominates decision-making or limits the other’s autonomy.
- Dishonesty or secrecy. Withholding information or lying creates distance and mistrust.
- Chronic disrespect. Dismissive language, eye-rolling or contempt can erode the emotional foundation of the relationship.
- Hostility or verbal aggression. Arguments that escalate into name-calling or threats may indicate underlying emotional distress or trauma.
- Emotional withdrawal. Stonewalling or shutting down emotionally can signal detachment.
Even if these signs feel small or infrequent, they can point to deeper patterns that need support. Therapy and counseling can help couples communicate more effectively, rebuild trust and navigate mental health issues impacting the relationship.
Common Causes of Relationship Stress
It’s not always one single event that disrupts a relationship. Often, it’s the slow buildup of life pressures or changes in health, finances or emotional well-being.
- Mental health challenges. Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or substance use in one or both partners can put a strain on emotional connection and communication.
- Financial stress. Having disagreements about money or financial insecurity is one of the most cited reasons for divorce.
- Physical illness or caregiving. When one partner becomes chronically ill or disabled, role shifts and caregiver stress can affect intimacy and connection.
- Parenting stress. Differences in parenting style or challenges with children’s behavior can divide even close couples.
When It’s a Mental Health Crisis
If relationship distress includes suicidal thoughts, emotional abuse or intense mental health symptoms, it may be time to call for immediate help.
- The Mental Health Hotline is available 24-7 at (866) 903‑3787.
- We can connect you with emergency mental health services, help assess your safety and locate local therapy providers.
You don’t have to figure everything out before reaching out — we’re here to listen and connect you to what you need.
Free and National Resources for Marriage and Relationship Counseling
Even if you can’t afford private therapy or need something today, reputable services and support lines are available.
- National Healthy Marriage Resource Center
A comprehensive hub for relationship resources, communication skills, and links to local support programs.
Visit: healthymarriageinfo.org - Military OneSource
For active-duty, reserve and veteran families, Military OneSource offers free counseling sessions and referrals for relationship help.
Call: (800) 342-9647
Visit: militaryonesource.mil - The Gottman Referral Network
Offers a directory of therapists trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, a highly respected and research-backed model.
Visit: gottmanreferralnetwork.com - Local Nonprofits and Faith-Based Programs
Many local churches, community centers, and nonprofit organizations offer free or low-cost counseling or relationship classes. Use directories like FindTreatment.gov to locate providers near you.
Is Marriage Counseling Available by Phone or Online?
Yes, many therapists now offer teletherapy or virtual couples sessions. However, most aren’t free.
If you’re in crisis or not sure where to start, call us at the Mental Health Hotline. We can help you locate:
- Therapists who offer sliding-scale fees
- Community-based or faith-based low-cost options
- Providers who specialize in mental health-related relationship issues
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Get Marriage Counseling Over the Phone?
Some providers offer phone or video-based sessions. While most are paid services, we can help locate affordable options. - What If My Partner Doesn’t Want to Go to Counseling?
You can still seek individual support. Many relationship issues can begin improving when one partner starts therapy and gains clarity or communication skills. - Do You Offer Couples Therapy?
We don’t provide therapy directly, but we’re here to support individuals in distress and connect them with appropriate local resources, including marriage counselors if needed. - When Is It Time to Call for Emergency Relationship Help?
If you or someone you love feels unsafe, overwhelmed or on the brink of a mental health crisis, call the Mental Health Hotline immediately. We’re here 24-7.
Call for Support
You’re not alone, even if it feels like your relationship is falling apart. Whether you’re dealing with emotional distance or mental health concerns or you just don’t know where to turn, help is available.
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