Do you suspect that your spouse is cheating on you? A healthy marriage or relationship is built on trust, and a cheating spouse destroys the trust that serves as the foundation for your union. If you suspect that your spouse is cheating on you, your mind is probably filled with more questions than answers. Here are signs that your spouse may be cheating.
1The Characteristics To Be Concerned About
While these signs can be symptoms of issues other than infidelity, there is cause for concern if your spouse exhibits many of these characteristics. Your spouse seems bored with his job, hobbies, and life in general. He suddenly seems attracted to the concept of thrills and danger; you notice that the intimacy between you has decreased and sex is infrequent; he shows signs of low self-esteem; you find it extremely difficult to communicate because he no longer opens up to you; if you mention infidelity, he becomes defensive; he suddenly begins to show you more attention than usual; he is putting in longer hours at work; he is paying more attention to his appearance than usual; you notice that he is spending more money than usual and is secretive about his expenses; family events, such as birthdays and holidays, no longer matter to him; you catch him lying to you about different things; he suddenly stops going to church with you or praying at home, and finally, he seems distant.
2What To Do If You Suspect Your Partner Is Cheating
If your spouse displays many of the signs listed above, first recognize that there may be other issues involved. It may be infidelity, or it may be something else altogether. It’s important to remain as calm as possible and refrain from jumping to conclusions. If it turns out that your spouse is cheating, these strategies may help you.
3Recognize That You’re Not To Blame
Your spouse has physical and emotional needs. However, your spouse may choose to meet his needs for physical and emotional intimacy outside of your marriage or relationship. Resist the urge to place the blame on yourself.
4Know That Infidelity May Lead You Back Together Again
Instead of giving up on the marriage, you may find that talking things out resolves the underlying issues that led to the cheating. You may choose divorce in the end. However, reconciliation may still be possible.
5Remember That You Deserve Happiness
When the bonds of marriage have been broken, rebuilding trust can be a challenge. But it can be done if both of you are willing to work at it and start over together. You are valuable, regardless of the outcome of your relationship.
6Talk To Your Spouse
If you know with certainty that he is cheating, confront him with what you have found. Listen to his point of view, and watch his reaction. If he seems truly sorry, you may be able to work things out. If he remains defiant, however, separation may be your only option.
7Seek And Find Help
Confide in friends that are usually upbeat and positive. Seek professional counseling. But whatever you do, avoid battling this alone. Draw upon the strength of the people that love you.
Infidelity can alter the course of your life in ways that may surprise you. It may be the end of the road in your relationship. Sometimes, however, infidelity is the catalyst to fixing the things that are wrong in your relationship, and you may come through this with a stronger relationship than ever.
No matter the outcome, however, there is hope. You can recover and live a life of happiness. This is possible as long as you refuse to give up and choose to affirm your right to the life you deserve.
Arlene Garretson is a proud resident of Daytona Beach, Florida, mother, and author. When she isn't writing about self-help, she enjoys hiking and photography: a great combination.
