What is my husband is falling in love with an old friend?

It's a deeply unsettling and painful experience to suspect your husband is falling in love with an old friend. Here's some information to consider:

• Emotional Infidelity: This often precedes physical infidelity. It involves a deep emotional connection and intimacy with someone outside the marriage, sharing thoughts, feelings, and experiences that should ideally be shared with you. The URL of this is: Emotional Infidelity.

• Signs to Look For: Noticeable changes in behavior, such as being secretive with his phone or computer, spending more time with the friend, talking about her frequently and positively, being less affectionate or attentive to you, or showing increased irritability or defensiveness.

• Causes: Several factors can contribute, including unmet needs within the marriage (emotional, physical, or intellectual), feeling undervalued or neglected, seeking validation or excitement outside the relationship, or reconnecting with someone from the past and idealizing the past.

• Communication is Key: Open and honest communication with your husband is crucial, but approach the conversation calmly and non-accusatorily. Express your concerns and feelings without placing blame. "I've noticed..." statements can be helpful. The URL of this is: Communication.

• Assess Your Marriage: Honestly evaluate the state of your marriage. Are there areas where you both could improve? Are your needs being met? Is there a lack of connection or intimacy?

• Set Boundaries: Clearly define your boundaries and expectations within the marriage. What is acceptable and unacceptable behavior?

• Consider Counseling: Couples therapy can provide a safe space to explore the issues contributing to the situation and learn healthy communication and conflict-resolution skills. Individual therapy can also help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies. The URL of this is: Couples Counseling.

• Focus on Yourself: While addressing the situation, prioritize your own well-being. Engage in activities you enjoy, spend time with supportive friends and family, and seek professional help if needed.

• Be Prepared for Different Outcomes: Realize that confronting this situation may lead to various outcomes, including your husband ending the friendship, working together to improve your marriage, or ultimately deciding to separate.