When is a Relationship Beyond Saving? Find Out Now!

In relationships, peaks and troughs are common, but reaching a point of no return indicates a complete breakdown in communication. “This is the stage where problems are insurmountable, and communication feels futile,” explains Sandra Barba, a psychotherapist. “It often relates to boundaries: one partner oversteps while the other withdraws. Eventually, one of them breaks because the situation becomes unbearable,” she illustrates.

Various factors can lead to this critical juncture in a relationship: the arrival of a baby, diminished sexual desire, avoidance issues within the relationship… It could also stem from unrespected boundaries. “Boundaries may shift over time. It’s crucial to continually redefine what we can tolerate and be able to communicate that to our partner,” the therapist advises. Signs that a relationship has reached the point of no return include: “A lack of future plans together and a growing disdain for each other can be warning signs,” says the expert. Other indicators include:

• Persistent arguing, sometimes turning violent,
• A loss of trust and respect within the relationship,
• If “your partner’s actions consistently disappoint you,”
• Lies: “They can destroy and lead to the point of no return,”
• “If everything your partner does seems flawed,”
• “If the couple no longer shares or desires to share future plans, it’s often a sign that the point of no return has been reached,”

Recognizing that you’ve reached a point of no return can be challenging “because it might have become routine to criticize each other,” observes Sandra Barba. She believes that “a breakup can serve as a wake-up call, helping each individual to recognize their limits and responsibilities. A separation lasting at least one to two months without any contact can be beneficial,” she suggests.