10 Reasons Why People in Long-Term Relationships Call It Quits (5 of 6)

8. Something terrible happens that the relationship can’t overcome

There were also plenty of stories about couples that were able to deal with almost every problem together, and then a difficult situation happens that causes the relationship to unravel. It could be something tragic like the unexpected death of a child. Or being laid off at work, forcing drastic lifestyle changes that the couple hadn’t anticipated.

9. One person eventually becomes insufferable

We are humans, and so our behaviors and personalities evolve to some extent throughout our lives. The person we are at the start of our relationship is not the same person we become 20 years later. We’re shaped by different events; we lose motivation to be productive; we turn into slobs. Sometimes relationships can end because their former partner turned into a real hot mess. Substance abuse problems. Choosing to be unemployed for three years. Sleeping more than their house cat.