By: Anne Davis

Keeping a marriage strong, especially in Los Angeles’s ever-busy atmosphere, is no small feat. Life here is constantly on the move, and sometimes, even the closest partnerships hit rough patches. If your spouse seems to be struggling, stepping in to support them can make all the difference. The journey isn’t about solving their problems but about standing by their side, listening, and knowing when and how to help. Here’s a look at some modern approaches that can genuinely help your partner feel seen, supported, and secure.

Stress Burnout

Living in LA comes with its own brand of stress. If your spouse is showing signs of burnout—irritability, sleepless nights, or feeling “checked out” during conversations—consider it a red flag. Burnout often sneaks up when someone has been running on fumes, balancing work, personal ambitions, and the city’s social expectations without time to recharge.

One of the ideal things you can do is encourage them to take a break, and that doesn’t mean a weekend at home. Take advantage of Los Angeles’s wellness scene, where options range from yoga retreats in Topanga Canyon to meditation sessions in Santa Monica. Suggesting they try something local can feel more manageable and accessible. For example, book a session at one of LA’s many infrared sauna spots or treat them to a restorative day in nature, like a drive up to Malibu’s secluded beaches. When they return, be ready to help them carve out regular relaxation time, even if it means setting work or social boundaries together.

Addiction Support

Addiction can be a tough topic, especially in a relationship. Sometimes, we may notice subtle signs—a shift in behavior, mood swings, or a reliance on substances to cope with stress or anxiety. If you’re seeing these changes in your spouse, the first step is gentle honesty. Approaching them with compassion and without judgment is essential; your words will either open the door for support or close it.

In cases where gentle talks haven’t made a difference, it’s okay to look outside for specialized help. You may have heard of a Montana interventionist from a friend that lives there – reach out, they may be willing to travel. Bringing in someone with experience in addiction support can introduce a neutral perspective and provide the space needed for honest conversations. They’ll understand what interventions work ideally, depending on your spouse’s personality and struggles. Sometimes, a supportive, distant voice can make all the difference and open the door for a smoother recovery journey.

Mental Health

Mental health has been making headlines in recent years, and rightfully so. If your spouse is feeling low, overwhelmed, or anxious, traditional therapy is always an option—but there’s no need to limit them to a classic approach. The modern mental health scene in LA offers alternatives that might resonate more strongly, especially if they’re hesitant to try conventional therapy.

Online therapy apps are great for privacy and flexibility, but there are also unique options in the city itself. LA has wellness centers with immersive experiences, like sensory deprivation tanks or art therapy sessions that create a comforting space to unload. If your spouse is the type who feels better being active, suggest a “therapeutic hike” with an experienced mental health coach who can work with them while exploring trails. You’re encouraging them to take that first step without it feeling clinical or overwhelming. Let them know that mental health is a journey, and in LA, they can find their own path to feeling better, with you right there to support them.

Financial Stress

In LA, financial pressure is real. Between sky-high rent, lifestyle expectations, and the cost of raising a family, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If your spouse seems particularly stressed about finances, this struggle might be weighing on them more than you realize. Instead of making finances a sensitive topic, approach it as a shared challenge you’re willing to tackle together.

Start by planning a casual “money date.” You don’t need to dive into numbers immediately; make it a relaxed setting, maybe over coffee or a favorite dessert, and then talk about your shared goals. There are plenty of accessible resources right in LA, from free budgeting workshops to nonprofit financial planners who offer affordable services. The key is to create a teamwork approach and remind your spouse they’re not alone in this. By taking on financial stress as a couple, you can create more stability, trust, and open communication.

Grief and Loss

Loss can hit without warning and leave someone feeling completely isolated. If your spouse is going through a period of grief, whether from the death of a loved one or another type of loss, know that words won’t always be the answer. Sometimes, all they need is your presence—no advice, no problem-solving, just the comfort of knowing you’re there.

In LA, there are support groups specifically for grief and loss, including outdoor group meetings where nature becomes a gentle backdrop for healing. Another option is to explore sound healing sessions, which are incredibly therapeutic and soothing. Offering these alternatives can introduce a path forward without pressuring them to feel “better” right away. Let your spouse move at their own pace, showing love and support through small, thoughtful gestures.

Moving Forward Together

Supporting a spouse through difficult times isn’t about solving their problems; it’s about being there with empathy, patience, and an open heart. LA offers countless resources to explore, from wellness hubs to mental health specialists willing to meet them halfway. The journey will have its ups and downs, but each challenge you face together will add strength to your relationship.

Remember, helping a struggling spouse is a two-way street. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself, too. Building resilience as a couple starts with staying connected, nurturing each other, and leaning on the city’s unique blend of wellness and community resources.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance or before beginning any new treatment. The services and statements mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition.

Published by: Khy Talara