There are a lot of things that can end your marriage: Infidelity, job loss, medical issues, general unhappiness, and getting married too young are just a few. The list goes on and on. 

One thing that you may have heard people talk about, though, is the so-called seven-year-itch. In general, it’s the idea that people only really feel happy in a marriage for about seven years. Then the feelings of love and connection start to wear off and they begin considering divorce so that they can find a new partner. 

Is this real? Is it possible that your marriage could end simply because of the number of years you’ve been married?

Changes in the dynamics of a relationship can lead to discontent

Strictly speaking, no, there’s no such thing as a seven-year-itch. Some have argued that it could happen in four years before the dynamics in a relationship change and someone wants out. In reality, there may not be a timeframe at all. Seven years is just a simple number that people have settled on since it’s easy to remember, but things are different for every couple. 

That said, psychologists do note that the issues that time presents: Relationships change, and dissatisfaction between married couples can grow. After getting married, most couples are in a honeymoon phase. They eventually have to come out of that and settle into daily life. Things may get harder with jobs and kids. 

Couples need to learn to change and adapt. The relationship is not always going to be as loving and joyful as that first phase. This change could happen before or after seven years, but it’s something most people face.

When a marriage is broken, it may be time to consider divorce

If you and your spouse do drift apart and get a divorce, you need to know how to navigate the legal system. An experienced firm can help. A divorce can often give both parties the fresh start they need to find what — or who — really makes them happy.