Relationship
Some signs you are not ready to get married (final)
Be on the same page
All your friends are married
How do you know you are not ready for marriage? You have been going to other people’s weddings for the past year and a half. You seem to have a permanent seat at the bride and groom’s table. You are tired of being asked, “So, when are you two going to tie the knot?”
If you are feeling left out because all of your friends have become “Mr and Mrs”, expand your social circle to include other non-marrieds. Clearly, you are not ready to get married and are just caving into peer pressure.
That is a much healthier way to handle this situation than moving forward with a wedding, just because you hate being the last unmarried couple at Bunco night.
You think your partner has the potential to change
You want to marry the person your partner is, not the person you imagine they can be. While people do undergo some changes are they mature, they do not change fundamentally. Whoever your partner is right now, that is the person they will always be.
So entering a marriage thinking it will magically change your partner into being more responsible, more ambitious, more caring, or more attentive to you is a huge mistake. Choosing to get married because of this false notion is also one of the signs you’re not ready for marriage.
People don’t change just because they exchange wedding rings. If you are not ready to get married it doesn’t imply that you will remain lonely till the end of your life.
Leverage this time to understand what is making you feel cold feet, build trust in your relationship, set and maintain healthy boundaries, make future plans, and ask yourself what you’re looking for out of a marriage and your partner.
By taking note of signs suggesting you are not ready to get married, you will be able to work at strengthening your bond, work at the areas of improvement in your relationship and build something special together, that has what it takes to weather the storms of a married life together.
Then use these insights to first build a solid relationship with your partner and then take the plunge when you both feel fully ready to. Remember the popular idiom, “We will cross the bridge when we come to it.”
Source: www.marriage.com
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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