My husband and I haven’t spoken since Christmas – How can I fix things?

DEAR DEIDRE: DESPITE living under the same roof and sleeping in the same bed, my husband and I haven’t spoken more than a few words to each other since Christmas.

I feel so down and can’t help but worry that our marriage is failing.

I’m 48, my husband is 52 and we’ve been married for 25 years. We have three children together who have all left home. 

Ever since he turned 50 it seems as if he has lost all energy for me and our marriage. 

He was waking up every day in a mood and taking issue with everything I did. 

I tried to keep the peace but there was only so much I could do before we started arguing. 

So at Christmas we agreed to get on for the sake of our kids. It felt so nice to have the husband I knew back. 

But since the holiday ended things have worsened again and now, instead of arguing, we barely talk to one another. 

I’m at a loss. How can I fix things between us?

DEIDRE SAYS: Relationships can be really difficult to maintain. While all marriages have ups and downs, you need to talk to him about how you feel. 

Tell him you miss the way things were and that you want to work on your relationship. My support pack Looking After Your Relationship provides  practical steps. 

Also try couple counselling. Contact ­Tavistock Relationships (020 7380 1975, tavistockrelationships.org).

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