Topic: relationship-dissolution

Question: Should I end it?
How do I decide if I should end my relationship with my boyfriend?

Answer (from Robin K. SchnitzlerCouples reclaiming connection!):
That is such a hard place to be. Usually when we ask that question, we are struggling with weighing the "good" from the "bad." Here are some questions to ask yourself:1. Do I like myself when I'm with my partner, or do I struggle to feel positive about myself with them?2. Do I feel like I show up in the world as a better person, because my partner is in my life?3. Do I feel like our relationship is reciprocal - that is, are we both giving and taking in some ways?4. Am I attached to this PERSON, or am I having trouble with ending a relationship in which I had a lot of hopes and dreams? 5. Am I staying in this relationship because I am afraid of being alone or feeling judged by my partner or others?Sometimes it is enough to take stock on our own or with the support of friends and family. Other times, it can be helpful to work with a therapist to untangle what is at the heart of feeling stuck, in order to move forward. I wish you all the best.

Answer (from Jason Lynch, MS, LMHC, LCAC, ADSIndividual & Couples Therapy):
Making the decision to end a relationship is never an easy decision. However, here are three signs that it may be time to end an unhealthy relationship.There are More Negative Interactions Than Positive OnesEvery relationship has its good interactions and its not-so-good ones. But there are those relationships that seem like every interaction is tense and filled with negative emotions. When communication becomes difficult or impossible, the relationship is beyond fixing.Vastly Different NeedsIn the beginning of a new friendship or romance, it’s easy to try and compromise with one another, making certain both person’s needs are being met. Over time, some friends or couples realize their needs are too different. For instance, in a romantic couple, someone may need more sex than the other. Someone may need to always be in control or have a need to lie. These kinds of clashing needs are a red flag for any relationship.A Blatant Lack of RespectRespect is essential in relationships. But sometimes there are those individuals that seem incapable of respecting the other person, their needs, their boundaries, their wishes, etc. These people tend to be on the narcissistic spectrum and are incapable of having empathy or respect for others’ needs.

Answer (from Dr Traci KochendorferTime for you to " Claim IT" with over 15 years in health and wellness, Ph.D Psy.D D.D. F.P.L.C. recognized on TV and Magazines,):
Some good talk therapy can help.  Also consult a spiritual advisor like myself who can give you some incite on what is going on around and spirit guides ...then decide on your own.

Answer (from Fred RogersQue Sera Sera Counseling ):
if there is abuse in any form, one needs to end the relationship !

Answer (from Michele RameyMRTherapy, LLC- Because Help Is One Of A Kind):
It sounds like you've already decided. But if you want to really figure it out, do a pros and cons list or talk to someone to figure out if you getting the most out of the relationship and if not, if making it better is an option, which it always is. Are you and your boyfriend willing to make it work? If it's one sided and you have nothing to lose get uncomfortable and do what you need to do. Trust your gut! It usually doesn't steer us wrong.

Answer (from Heather BradleyHelping you heal from trauma and live meaningful lives):
Deciding to end a relationship is a big question that deserves your full care and attention.  One of the first questions you may ask of yourself and consider for your boyfriend is whether you are both willing to work on the relationship.  A relationship, no matter how great or hard, can't work unless both people are invested in working on it.  This means that both people are willing to take responsibility and work on their on stuff when things are hard rather than blaming the other.  If one of you is not willing or able to work at this then the relationship can't really grow or get better.  Perhaps spend some time really asking yourself if you this is the person you want to work on things with.  All relationships are hard and require care and attention and also ask us to really take responsibility for what we contribute.  This should be done in a relationship where you want to do this work for yourself and the other.  Also, if you are fully in and ready to do the work but your partner isn't.  If they say things like "this is just how I am" or "we have problems because of your issues" then you also may want to really slow down and consider if this will be workable.  You and your boyfriend need to be invested and committed to the relationship even when things are hard.

Answer (from Ian Palombo#ThoughtMediator & #LifeUntangler):
Breakups are hard, there’s no two-ways about it. The emotional toll is enough to send many people into the fetal position with one hand wrapped around a spoon and the other around a pint of ice cream.The problem with reaching for comfort foods in times of crisis is that they set us up to feel even worse. Yes, sugar absolutely gives us an initial rush. We feel energized and happy. Guess what happens when you eat sugar? Your brain produces more dopamine, a feel-good chemical. Before long, you are eating more and more ice cream to keep your dopamine levels up.When you experience a breakup, it’s important to fight your urge to self-medicate the sadness away through unhealthy foods or alcohol. Here are some things you can do instead to feel better:Create a New SpaceIt’s time for a fresh new start, and there’s no better way to do this than by giving your living space a makeover. Move the furniture around, give your living room a new paint color. Get some new sheets and linens. You want to remove obvious memories from your home and create the kind of space that makes you feel excited for your future.Reconnect with Loved OnesOften when we’re in a relationship, all of our time and energy goes to the other person and we see old friends and family less than we’d like. Now is a great time to reconnect with those people who will love and support you through this hard time.Try Mindfulness MeditationAnd speaking of connecting with loved ones, it’s time to connect with yourself. Mindful meditation is a great way to quiet your thoughts and just be with the REAL you. Meditation also helps to alleviate stress. Five to 10 minutes a day is all you need to start feeling calm and balanced, and this is a much better headspace to begin making choices and decisions for your future.Breakups will never be easy, but they are a part of life. Do your best to stay away from binging on junk food and instead focus on self-care and compassion.If you find your feelings of sadness are not going away, it may be helpful to talk to someone. When we don’t know how to navigate our strong emotions, we can become depressed and anxious. Speaking with a therapist can help you work through your pain.

Answer (from Kelly SteebReal Life Therapy):

Answer (from Porsche Fryehttps://bmindfulcounseling.com):
Hi!I’m sorry you’re having this dilemma. I wish I knew a little more about the situation to give a better answer. Have you discussed what is causing you to consider breaking up with your partner? Based on the information given, I suggest starting off making a pros and cons list. Pros for staying in the relationship and cons for staying. See which side has more. Follow your gut. Hope this helps as a start.