When the Honeymoon Is Over- A Letter on Love
Happy Sunday and another letter about love.
People often think of the trip a married couple takes after their wedding as their “honeymoon.” And why not, you’re creating new memories, celebrating a new chapter. It’s sweet, and you feel over the moon.
In relationships, there is also something called the "honeymoon phase." The honeymoon phase in a romantic relationship typically refers to the beginning stage when a couple experiences intense feelings of love, excitement, and passion. It’s exciting, you can’t spend enough time together, and maybe you think to yourself, “I just want this to last.”
This phase is characterized by a new sense of discovery and a heightened level of intimacy. Sharing things with each other, learning about them and yourself. However, the honeymoon is not forever. It does come to an end. When the honeymoon is over, the relationship transitions into a more stable and mature stage.
Transition and change is hard. It can also create uncertainty and anxiety for some people.
Remember: This transition can be both normal and healthy for the relationship's long-term growth.
As the initial excitement fades, couples may face new challenges and realities. They might need to navigate differences, establish effective communication patterns, and develop a strong foundation for the future. Many see some of their first fights, disagreements, and misunderstandings in this phase. While the intensity of the honeymoon phase may decrease, it doesn't mean that the love and connection are diminishing. Instead, it's an opportunity for the relationship to evolve and mature.
To maintain a healthy and fulfilling relationship beyond the honeymoon phase, I encourage you to focus on open communication, mutual understanding, and ongoing efforts to nurture their connection. Building a strong emotional bond, fostering trust, and sharing common goals can contribute to a lasting and meaningful partnership. Remember that every relationship is unique, and individuals may experience the transition out of the honeymoon phase in different ways.
Create a new culture of appreciation and what works for you may not work for others. It’s YOUR relationship.
Disclaimer:
The intention for using social media for social workers and other mental health professionals is for marketing, education, advocacy, thought leadership, and providing content in a technologically changing field. We want to do this while making potential therapy-seekers aware of the risks and benefits of engagement on social media and Internet where mental health professionals are present. A therapeutic relationship is a professional relationship and in today's technological climate, a social media presence or following your therapist on social media is not to be confused with a relationship outside of therapy. Ethical, professional, and therapeutic boundaries must be followed and honored.
A counseling social media page or blog is not psychotherapy, a replacement for a therapeutic relationship, or substitute for mental health and medical care. A social media presence as a counseling professional is not seeking an endorsement, request, or rating from past or current clients. No social media posts or blog should be considered professional advice. The information contained in posts is general information for educational purposes only.
Be mindful of sharing personal details or details or others if you choose to comment.
Please consult your physician or mental health provider regarding advice or support for your health and wellbeing.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical and/or psychiatric mental health crisis and requires assistance, please call 911 emergency services.
988- National Suicide Prevention Hotline (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Safe Horizon 24-hour Hotlines (se habla español):
Domestic violence victims: 800-621-HOPE (4673)
Victims of crime and their families: 866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape & sexual assault victims: 212-227-3000