5 common mistakes couples make that can hurt or end their relationship, according to a psychotherapist

It's understandable that you might not want to rock the boat by bringing up an issue when things are going okay. Or you might dodge a difficult conversation when your relationship is struggling because you don't want to risk making things worse. But denying problems won't make them go away. In fact, unaddressed issues are likely to get worse over time.

Of course, timing is everything when you bring up problems — but don't use this as an excuse to avoid talking about an issue. There's never a perfect time to hold a difficult conversation, and while you may argue or disagree, it's better to address problems head-on so you can begin to fix them.

Feeling assured of your partner's feelings for you can help you feel comfortable in the relationship. But it can also be a slippery slope that leads you to take your partner for granted.

Research consistently shows that gratitude is a key component in successful long-lasting relationships. A 2018 study by researchers at the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley reports that gratitude helps "individuals and relationships weather challenging situations" by buffering against the negative effects of problems like financial distress, caring for aging parents, and fighting against cancer and depression.

Show appreciation (especially if you feel underappreciated). Expressing gratitude toward your partner might inspire them to experience more gratitude toward you. Experiencing and expressing gratitude could help your relationship grow over time as you face life's inevitable challenges together.

Raising children, running a household, and managing day-to-day activities, can sometimes feel more business rather than romance. The busyness of life can also mean less time spent together, which can cause many couples to get stuck in a rut as they do the same things day after day.

Fight this tendency by proactively having fun together. A 1993 study published in the Journal of Personal Relationships found that couples who tried new and exciting things together reported higher levels of marital satisfaction. Whether you explore a new place or learn a new skill together, participating in new activities that will help you grow your bond.

Poor listening comes in several forms. Some people stare at their smartphones without hearing what their partner says. Other people begin working on their counter-arguments without trying to understand their partner's point of view. No matter what form it takes, not listening is a major relationship problem.

You can prevent and solve a lot of these problems by listening to what your partner is saying. Keep in mind that listening doesn't mean "staying quiet," however. Really listening involves trying to understand what the other person is communicating. Make eye contact, ask questions, and reflect back on what you think your partner is trying to say, before diving in to share your opinion.

If you find yourself making some of these common mistakes, take action to fix the situation. And if you find yourself struggling to put an end to your unhealthy habits on your own, seek professional help. A couples counselor can help sharpen your skills and change your negative patterns so you can enjoy the best relationship possible.