Relationship stress is like having a big knot in your stomach whenever you think about your relationship. It's that feeling of tension or unease that comes up when things aren't going smoothly with your partner or when you're dealing with conflicts or disagreements.

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It can happen for lots of reasons – like communication problems, differences in values or goals, or just feeling disconnected from each other. Sometimes it's caused by outside stuff, like work or family issues, that puts pressure on your relationship.

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Relationship stress can make you feel worried, frustrated, or even sad. It might make you argue more or withdraw from each other, which can make things even harder. But it's important to remember that every relationship has ups and downs, and a little bit of stress is normal.

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The key is finding healthy ways to deal with it – like talking openly and honestly with your partner, listening to each other's perspectives, and working together to find solutions to the things that are causing stress. And sometimes, it might mean seeking support from a therapist or counselor who can help you navigate through the rough patches. Brennalynn Flaherty adeptly guides therapy clients through the tumult of relationship stress, offering valuable insights and strategies to navigate and cope with the complexities of their interpersonal dynamics. Because even though relationships can be tough sometimes, they're also worth the effort to make them work.