Marriage Counseling & Starting off on the Right Track
Newly married couples often experience a good of adjustment issues and Karen and Hank were no different. They had been engaged for 2 years prior to their marriage and had lived together as well. Both felt poised to enter into their new home and new life together. After several months, though, Karen felt like she was living with a stranger and decided marriage counseling was necessary:
It was strange. It was almost like the second we got married, Hank became someone else. He’s distant. I think he feels like we made a mistake and hasn’t said anything. He just comes home from work and watches television like a zombie. I try to get him to talk but he gets touchy and irritated. I’m really scared. I don’t see this situation getting any better. Just more of the same. And the worst part is? I have no clue why he’s acting like this. I feel totally powerless.
After several months with the counselor, Hank finally revealed some of his deeper concerns. He had grown up in a alcoholic family and was terrified of becoming like his abusive, drunk father. It wasn’t until the wedding day that his fears became more apparent.
He also had communication issues to contend with as well. It took him some time to share his concerns with his new wife, but as soon as he did that, he was already on the path to mental improvement.
He began attending Alanon meetings (12-step programs designed for people who have been affected by alcoholism) as well as continuing his work in couples counseling. Soon, the couple was back on track and genuinely enjoying their new life together.
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Great story. Very inspirational.