How to Support Your Spouse During a Difficult Season

Christi Young
Jun 10
3 min read

When someone you love is hurting, it’s natural to want to help. But many people find themselves feeling unsure or even helpless when their spouse is walking through a difficult season—whether it's emotional stress, grief, anxiety, burnout, or spiritual struggle. You may wonder: “What can I do? Am I saying the right things? How do I help without making it worse?”

These are common questions, and you’re not alone.

At Christi Young Counseling, I help individuals and couples learn how to show up with compassion and confidence in their relationships—especially when life feels heavy. If your spouse is going through a hard time and you're not sure how to be supportive, here are some faith-based steps to help guide you.

1. Start with Prayer and Compassionate Intentions

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." – Galatians 6:2

True support begins in your heart.

Ask God to help you approach your spouse with patience, grace, and tenderness.
Pray for their healing, peace, and for wisdom in how to love them well.
Your spiritual posture can shift the atmosphere in your home.

2. Listen More Than You Speak

"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak..." – James 1:19

Sometimes the most powerful way to help is simply to be present.

Let your spouse express their feelings without rushing to fix or explain.
Offer phrases like: “That sounds really hard. I’m here with you.”
Create space for silence or tears—it communicates safety and care.

3. Encourage Without Pushing

"Encourage one another daily..." – Hebrews 3:13

Words can be healing, but only when they’re offered gently.

Avoid clichés or pressure to “cheer up.”
Affirm their courage and resilience, even in small steps.
Remind them (and yourself) that healing is a process, not a sprint.

4. Help in Practical, Thoughtful Ways

Support is often felt in the little things.

Take on small responsibilities to ease their burden: cooking, errands, or managing schedules.
Ask, “What would feel most helpful today?”
Offer help freely, without making them feel like a burden.

5. Stay Emotionally Available

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted..." – Psalm 34:18

When your spouse withdraws or struggles emotionally, it’s easy to feel shut out—but your steady presence matters.

Let them know you’re there, even when words are few.
Resist the urge to retreat. Quiet presence can be deeply comforting.
Physical closeness, like a hand on the shoulder or a hug, can speak volumes.

6. Remember: You Can’t Do It All Alone

You are not your spouse’s healer—but you can be a vessel of Christ’s love.

Be mindful of your own emotional and spiritual health.
Give yourself permission to rest, set boundaries, and seek your own support.
Lean on prayer, Scripture, trusted friends, or Christian counseling when needed.

7. Christian Counseling Can Support You Too

Whether you come in for individual sessions or couples counseling, therapy can be a place of refuge and growth. Together, we can explore how to:

Support your spouse without losing yourself.
Communicate through emotional struggles with grace.
Rebuild emotional connection during seasons of stress.

You're not alone. If you’re ready to gain clarity, encouragement, and practical tools to love your spouse well through hard times, I’m here to walk with you.

📞 Call: 817-993-1170📧 Email: therapycy@gmail.com🌐 Visit: www.7counseling.com

Christi Young Counseling | Faith-Based Therapy in Colleyville, Texas & Online Across Texas