All relationships go through some kind of turbulence once in a while but it is important to watch for warning signs and to take some time out to work things out when they begin to spell trouble.  It is when anger, coldness and blame begin to replace comforting warmth, love and intimacy.

Some of the alarm bells to be aware of are: constant bickering, avoidance, jealousy, depression and decrease in sexual passion.

Every relationship is different but the underlying problem is usually the same; lack of real honest and respectful communication.  Good communication is essential for a lasting relationship, however most of the time couples just do not know how to communicate.

Some of the following strategies have been recommended by the best therapists around:

• Talk and listen; really talk and get things out in the open and listen to what your partner has to say. Some therapists recommend spacing this out so there is time to absorb and reflect on the information received. Day 1; spend a couple hours talking about what you like about each other. Day 2; talk about what has been bothering you (respectfully, tactfully and with maturity).  Day 3; talk about what you miss about each other.  Day 4; talk about where you want your relationship to go.
• Write a letter telling each other what you love and miss about the other and what you are hopping for the future. Exchange the letters and read them alone.
• Check each of your calendars and make time to go on a date. Just the two of you.

Find some time to do something different and fun together. Just laugh about something, and forget about the serious stuff for a while.