There’s a reason why you’ll so often hear the phrase “marriage is hard work”. Because it really is. Building a life and a partnership with someone is a wonderful thing, but that doesn’t mean it will always be easy.

Even after so many years together, issues can still crop up. In fact, divorce rates have doubled among couples over 50 since 1990.

That’s why this article is going to take a look at some of the most common marriage problems after 20 years. We’ll get into what they are, how they can happen, and what you can do about them. Read on to learn more.

1. Empty Nest Syndrome

Empty nest syndrome is the term for the change parents experience once their kids have grown up and left the home. This transitional period often includes feelings of sadness, aimlessness, and loss, and can be tough for a couple to go through.

Having dedicated the past 18 years or so to your child or children’s wellbeing, it can be difficult to relearn what life with just the two of you is like. This can be so challenging that for some couples, it can lead to fighting and even divorce.

2. A Loss of Passion

Being married for 20 years is a huge achievement. An even bigger feat, however, is keeping the spark alive this entire time. When you spend so much time with a person, and grow old with them, it can be easy to fall into a routine that’s comfortable.

Many couples report that they “fall out of love” or don’t see their partners in the same way anymore. If this is something you’re both feeling, it’s worth exploring to see whether there’s anything that can be done about it.

3. Unresolved Issues from Your Past

Every couple has topics or memories that are difficult to discuss and that were at one point a huge bone of contention in the relationship. While sweeping problems under the rug can work as a temporary fix, unless you address and overcome an issue it’s always going to be there.

What happens in the case of many long-term married couples is that issues from the past will sometimes resurface. When this happens, it can lead to serious arguments which can sometimes be impossible to overcome.

4. One Party Is Unfaithful

One of the leading causes of the dissolution of marriages is infidelity. Although this may seem like something that would occur more often in younger couples, the truth is a person can cheat at any age. It can also happen that a person learns of infidelity that occurred long in the past.

Cheating breaches trust in a marriage and for this reason, it can be difficult to get past. If you’re grappling with the decision of whether or not to stay with your partner, ask yourself is it time for divorce?

Common Marriage Problems After 20 Years

Married couples of any age can have issues. If you recognize any of these common marriage problems after 20 years in your own relationship, it can help to speak with a professional and of course to speak with your partner. If you’re looking for more advice, see some of the rest of our content now.