The Warning Signs

Relationship burnout has signals distinct from ordinary relationship fatigue.

Emotional numbness. You feel neither angry nor sad toward your partner — you feel nothing. This flatness is a defense mechanism against further depletion.

Relief when they leave. Their absence feels like a vacation. If that is true, something is wrong.

Dread of quality time. Date night becomes a chore you go through without engagement.

Fantasy about alternatives. Not necessarily other partners — being alone, moving, starting over. Your mind keeps picturing an escape.