The realities of relationship failure.

Young surgeons and their spouses experience a myriad of stresses in the first few years of practice. Issues related to job search, moving to a new community, learning one's craft, time management, changes to spouse's career, child rearing, and the ever blurring line between work time and free time may all contribute to a decline in a couple's relationship. Recognizing these issues as obstacles to a healthy relationship and working to stay attuned to each other's emotional needs is of paramount importance. Some couples experiencing problems benefit from couples counseling, although many will ultimately go on to split and divorce. Going through a divorce can be an extremely consuming process, which may leave a person emotionally and financially depleted. Efforts to maintain other supports systems and to limit excessive work responsibilities may allow for a smoother passage through this commonly difficult period of life.