Communication Problems • hannahpenelope • 1d ago

My boyfriend (31) and I (35) are facing significant challenges, and I take full responsibility for it.

My boyfriend and I have been together for three years, sharing a home, a car, and a dog. We’re also planning to get married in the near future. However, recently, we’ve been facing some serious conflicts. He tends to decide when we can discuss our issues, which has made it difficult for us to communicate effectively. Due to concerns about my drinking—since I work at a bar—we came to an agreement that I would stick to seltzers. I've been following this for two months, but I had two cocktails last night. When he picked me up, he pointed it out, saying, "You remember the no liquor agreement, right?" I explained that I tried a new flavor and didn't think having just two drinks was a big deal. It's important to note that this agreement wasn't made because I'm disruptive or careless; I was simply drinking too much, and he feels it's better for me to drink at home. I tend to be a social drinker, so I rarely drink excessively outside. I genuinely believe we have communication problems, and I suggested we try couples therapy. He reacted with anger, accusing me of wrongdoing and insisting that therapy isn’t necessary. I apologized but explained that when he’s upset, he doesn’t communicate as if I’m an equal partner. He believes he needs to "punish" me, thinking that will help me understand his perspective. Unfortunately, when I attempt to express how I feel, especially if it casts him in a negative light, he shuts down the conversation. I’m at my breaking point. He frequently gets upset with me, and when I try to discuss my feelings, they often go unheard. This pattern has only developed this year, and I’m feeling lost about how to move forward. I love him dearly, but I feel like I’m falling apart. I don't want our relationship to end, but it seems like we’re headed toward a critical juncture.


💬


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