Love or Money?

The findings of a recent Harris Interactive poll show that, due to the recession, 42 percent of Americans are holding off on major life decisions, including marriage and children.

This has begun to create a whole slew of additional problems for couples.

Women who felt like the man in their life was getting ready to propose may now be wondering what happened to his devotion. He's suddenly more distant or stressed or reluctant to talk about the future. Does that mean he's no longer interested? Is he rethinking your relationship?

Men who thought their relationship was moving to the next level may feel trapped in an economic dilemma. They want to provide the woman they love with the ring and wedding she wants... but at the moment there just isn't room to make it happen.

Paranoia and mistrust in relationships can fester in times like these, and communication can quickly go downhill. Do you have the relationship skills to come out unscathed on the other side? If not, it's time to talk about it. We're always here for you.

→ Do you feel like your relationship has changed for untouchable reasons over the last several months? How much do you think it could be related to economic stress?