Is Your Marriage in Trouble?

We've all heard the statistics. Half of all marriages end in divorce, and that number rises to 67% for second marriages.

But before you're singing that old country song "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," what are the telltale signs that your love is on the rocks, and how can you fix the problem before it's too late?

That's the question we posed to therapist and relationship expert Rachel Sussman, author of "The Breakup Bible."

While there can be many factors that lead to a breakup, including simply growing apart, Rachel says infidelity is the biggest single reason why marriages hit the skids. But it's possible to work through even the most serious of problems if couples come to the table willing to acknowledge what made it work in the first place, what isn't working now, and how to move forward.

She says too many people throw in the towel too early, and advises counseling and trying to reestablish the relationship before resorting to divorce.

A lot of couples with children may struggle with the decision and try to stay together for the kids. Rachel says these situations are complicated, because a divorce can be a traumatic experience for children, but so can staying together in a hostile environment.

She lays out all the signs that a marriage is in trouble, and discusses tips on "when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em."

But she also says working proactively to keep your love alive before the trouble sets in is key. Find common interests, have separate interests and give each other space.

The saying "opposites attract" may be true in physics, but not always true in relationships.

I think you'll find Rachel's advice honest, refreshing and helpful!

This article originally appeared in : Is Your Marriage in Trouble? : By Katie Couric | Katie's Take – Tue, Dec 4, 2012