Family stress can arise from everyday pressures or big life events, and intense conflict can damage even the closest relationships. Common sources of family tension include financial strain, parenting disagreements, a child’s mental health struggle, marital problems, or major transitions (like divorce, a new baby, or moving to a new home). For example, if one child needs ongoing mental health treatment, siblings may feel neglected or anxious, and parents may argue over care decisions. Without intervention, family conflict “has the power to damage, even destroy, relationships”, whereas therapy can help families work through issues to strengthen their bonds.
High-conflict homes often have poor communication and unresolved hurts. For example, parents with frequent arguments – even if not about the children – create a tense environment; the children feel the stress even if they don’t understand the reasons. In therapy, families learn to set boundaries, improve communication, and resolve disputes constructively. With guidance, conflicts can become opportunities for growth and deeper understanding, rather than sources of resentment.