Normalizing Relationship Struggles: Why Talking About Mental Health Online Matters?

By Juen Arzadon, MA, AMFT/APCC

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When it comes to relationships, many people feel like they need to show the perfect picture—whether it’s on social media, with family, or in their community. As a therapist, I often hear clients say things like:

• “We look fine on the outside, but at home we’re constantly fighting.”

• “I don’t want people to know we’re struggling—it feels embarrassing.”

• “Everyone else seems so happy in their relationship. What’s wrong with us?”

The truth is, every relationship has conflict. What matters most is not avoiding problems, but learning how to face them in healthy, constructive ways.

Why We Struggle in Silence?

In Filipino culture—and honestly, in many communities—there’s a tendency to keep relationship issues private. We’re taught to avoid hiya (shame) and protect the family image.

Add social media into the mix, where couples post only their happiest moments, and it’s easy to feel like everyone else has it all together.

But silence comes at a cost: unspoken resentment, emotional distance, even cycles of infidelity or addiction.

Why I Talk About This Online?

Part of my mission as a Filipino therapist is to normalize these conversations on social media. I create content that says: “Hey, it’s okay if your relationship isn’t perfect. It’s okay if you need help.”

By sharing insights about conflict resolution, emotional safety, trust, and intimacy online, I want people to realize they’re not alone. When we talk openly about therapy, we remove the stigma and make it more acceptable to seek support.

Three Reminders for Couples Struggling Right Now

• Conflict is normal. The goal isn’t to never fight—it’s to fight fair and repair afterward.

  
  

• Comparison is harmful. Don’t measure your relationship against the highlight reels you see online.

  
  

• Therapy is strength, not weakness. Reaching out for help shows courage and commitment to growth.

  
  

Breaking the Cycle Together

Relationships are one of the most important parts of our lives, but they’re also one of the most challenging. If you’re struggling, know that you don’t have to carry it in silence. Whether through therapy or simply engaging with mental health content online, every step you take to talk about it is a step toward healing.

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 My goal is simple: To normalize mental health topics and relationship struggles—both in the therapy room and on social media. Because the more we talk about it, the less alone people feel. - Juen Arzadon