Relationship
Some signs you are not ready to get married
• Be on the same page
The question has been popped, and you have said yes. You’ve excitedly announced your engagement to all your family and friends. But as you start planning your wedding, you just aren’t feeling it.
You are having second thoughts. Is it a case of cold feet, or something more? Not ready to get married? Are you able to look at glaring signs you’re not ready for a relationship?
Here are some signs that you are not ready to get married
•You have only known your partner a short while
It has only been six months, but every moment together has been bliss. You can’t stop thinking about them. You never want to be away from their side. When not together, you text constantly. This must be love, right?
Not really.
During the first year, you are in the infatuation stage of your relationship. This doesn’t mean that you won’t marry your partner one day. But you need time to learn more about this person before committing to them.
During the first year, everything looks rosy. A few months down the line you could find yourself saying, “not sure about marriage.”
Making an important life-altering decision while wearing the rose-colored glasses of infatuation would be a mistake.
If this is the real deal, love will last, giving you more time to better assess everything about your mate—the good and the not-so-good—so that you can walk down the aisle truly knowing who this person is.
•You are uncomfortable sharing your deep, dark secrets
A healthy, loving marriage is made up of two people who know each other’s secrets and still love each other. If you are hiding something significant, a former marriage, a bad credit history, a substance abuse problem (even if resolved)—you aren’t ready to marry that person.
If you are afraid that your partner will judge you, you need to work on where that fear is coming from. You want to be able to be authentically you, and still be loved, when saying “I do.”
•You don’t fight well
If your couple’s pattern of conflict resolution is one person giving in to the other just to keep the peace, you aren’t ready to get married.
Happy couples learn to communicate their grievances in ways that move towards mutual satisfaction, or at least mutual understanding of the other person’s viewpoint.
If one of you consistently gives in to the other, just so tempers will not flare, this will only breed resentment in your relationship.
Before getting married, do some work, either by reading advice books or talking to a counselor, so you learn how to handle the inevitable conflicts that arise in all relationships.
If you sense that you are not willing to “fight intelligently”, you are not ready to get married.
To be continued…
Relationship
HIV Infection: Health Director Cautions Adolescents and Couples Against Unhealthy Sexual Behaviours
Mr. George Agyemang, the Acting Wenchi Municipal Director of Health in the Bono Region, has cautioned adolescents to refrain from engaging in unprotected sex and having multiple sexual partners.
He said HIV infection was recording alarming figures in the municipality and urged couples to remain faithful and avoid extra-marital affairs to protect themselves against new HIV infections.
Mr. Agyemang gave the advice while speaking at the 2026 review meeting of the directorate at Wenchi on the theme: “Stakeholder’s Engagement and Efforts in Achieving Universal Health Coverage.”
He revealed that the municipality currently has 2,153 persons living with HIV and AIDS, with the HIV and AIDS prevalence standing at 2.5 per cent, ranking it the second highest in the Bono Region.
Mr. Agyemang further indicated that HIV infections do not discriminate, noting that people who engage in promiscuous lifestyles expose themselves to the virus. He urged those who could not control their sexual desires to always use condoms.
By GNA
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As a parent, receiving news that your child has special needs can be overwhelming. The journey ahead may seem daunting, but with the right support and strategies, you can help your child thrive.
According to Dr. Bruce F. Pennington, a renowned psychologist and expert in developmental psychopathology, “Parents are the most important agents of change for children with developmental disabilities” (Pennington, 2009). This emphasises the crucial role parents play in shaping their child’s future.
Every child is unique, and special needs come in many forms. Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has ADHD, or another condition, understanding their individual strengths and challenges is crucial. Research suggests that parents who focus on their child’s strengths and abilities tend to experience better outcomes and higher levels of well-being (Hastings & Taft, 2015). Take time to learn about their diagnosis, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and advocate for your child’s needs.
Embracing the Journey: Understanding Your Child’s Unique Path
Establishing routines and structures can help your child feel more secure. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and use visual aids to communicate.
A study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that children with autism who followed a structured routine experienced reduced anxiety and improved social interactions (Gioia et al., 2018).
Do not be afraid to seek professional help from Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC) when needed, whether it is occupational therapy, speech therapy, or counselling.
Building a Support Network: You Are Not Alone
Parenting a special child can be isolating, but it does not have to be. Reach out to support groups, online communities, CPAC, and local organisations that cater to families with special needs. These networks can provide emotional support, practical advice, and valuable resources.
Dr. Jan Blustein, a leading expert on family support and autism, notes that “social support is a critical component of family well-being” (Blustein, 2012).
Practical Strategies: Navigating Daily Challenges with Ease
Focus on your child’s strengths and abilities, and encourage them to pursue their passions. This positive approach will help build confidence and self-esteem. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and acknowledge their efforts. By doing so, you will create a nurturing environment that fosters growth and development.
Celebrating Progress: Focusing on Your Child’s Strengths
As you embark on this journey with your special child, remember that you’re not alone. Seek support, prioritise self-care, and focus on your child’s strengths. With love, patience, and the right resources, you can help your child thrive.
To be continued…
Source: Rev. Counselor Prince Offei and Counselor Blessing Offei’s insights on relationships, mental health, and parenting special needs children in Ghana. He is a leading mental health professional, lecturer, renowned author, and marriage counsellor at Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC Counsellor Training Institute).
He is the author of several books, including “Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage” and “A Counsellor’s Guide to Using ‘Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage’ Effectively.”
By Rev. Counselor Prince Offei & Counselor Blessing Offei
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