Brits might be known for their stiff upper lips, but somehow, we never seem to think about how much this can affect relationships. New research has discovered that over 62% of UK adults who are currently dating or married admit they don’t speak to anyone for advice, even when there are signs a relationship is over.
And whilst the overall figure seems high enough, for men the lack of openness is even worse. A staggering 70% of men won’t seek guidance.
This new survey by App Paired explored everything from what issues are hardest to talk about to whether they would seek a professional for advice. The research revealed that Brits in a relationship will often turn to a professional for help with health or mental health issues.
A tiny 1% would seek relationship therapy or counselling for problems within their relationship. Only 5% would seek professional help for problems in the bedroom or coping with a sexless marriage. It also showed that this figure remained similar regardless of earnings or social class. So it seems that money is not the main obstacle holding Brits back from seeking professional help.
What problems are hardest to talk about?
- Sex - 20% of Brits in a relationship find that sex is the hardest topic to discuss with their partner.
- Money - 11% find financial matters most difficult to talk about.
- Mental Health - 9% find this most difficult.
- Family and In-Laws - 7% found family issues the hardest to bring up.
How can the Paired App help couples?
This recent survey was commissioned by Paired, a new app for couples. It aims to open-up communication between partners and help to improve communication, build intimacy, and ultimately revive romance in a relationship.
Paired key features
- In just 10 minutes a day, the Paired app's mission is to make relationships happier and healthier.
- Audio course - leading clinical psychotherapists and academics have designed and narrated courses on subjects including Sex & Intimacy, Managing Conflict and Parenting as Partners to help give couples insight at home.
- Daily Questions - couples can answer questions designed to strengthen their relationships and encourage dialogue.
- Expert tips and conversation starters - these can also help encourage couples to open up to each other.
Why choose a relationship app?
Apps have become an ever more essential part of our lives, especially in recent months. Whilst 1% of couples in the UK said they would seek help from professionals for relationship problems, 30% said they would consider using an app.
Professor Jacqui Gabb, Professor of Sociology and Intimacy at the Open University and Chief Relationship Officer at Paired says that: "Communication is absolutely key when it comes to successful relationships."
After studying long-term relationships for years, she reveals that: “Couples’ relationships are just like any other relationship” and that “you have to put the time, energy and effort into them otherwise they simply won’t survive.”
This is where Jacqui believes Paired can make a real difference.
“Paired offers up a wonderful, easy way to do this without even having to leave your sofa.”
Paired is available to download now on the APP store and Google Play.
