Demand for support with relationship issues is increasing significantly, with RedArc reporting a 47% year-on-year rise in referrals, an 84% increase since 2023, and a three-fold surge over five years.
A recurring theme in referrals to RedArc is that challenges often arise when one or both individuals are living with long-term physical or mental health conditions. The reverse is also often true too, with relationship difficulties also exacerbating existing health issues, particularly those of a psychological nature, affecting sleep, overall wellbeing, and day-to-day functioning.
Google search insights also reflect this trend
Google search data indicates that these trends are reflected across society, with significantly higher volumes of searches for terms such as “relationship issues” and “relationship problems” in 2025 compared to 2024.
The Google search statistics and RedArc data combine to provide an important insight, pointing to an increase in relationship difficulties alongside a willingness among individuals to seek support. When professional help is available, it can support people to manage these challenges, remain in work, minimise disruption to employers, and improve how they feel day to day.
What does effective support look like?
With health and emotional issues being so intertwined, support should be provided by a clinically trained professional, allowing for a more holistic assessment of the individual, including how relationship challenges impact their health, sleep, lifestyle, and capacity to stay in work and remain productive.
This could include long-term emotional support, suggestions for coping strategies, help in discussing health issues with others, signposting to support groups and specialist charities, and clinical medical support for specific conditions.
By addressing these interconnected factors, support can be more effective and sustainable.
Consistent support required for complex relationship challenges
When it comes to relationship support, consistent guidance from the same professional can be vital in building trust and developing a deeper understanding of often complex and nuanced issues.
While counselling and talking therapies – whether delivered individually or jointly – may form part of the solution, access to a dedicated specialist who can provide continuity, advise on overall wellbeing, join up different aspects of the situation, and offer ongoing support between sessions is equally important. This approach ensures individuals are directed to the most appropriate support, while also taking into account wider health issues, which may not always be addressed when therapies are provided in isolation.
Christine Husbands, commercial consultant, RedArc said:
“When someone has real relationship issues that affect their health, they need more than just a listening ear from a kind family member, friend or colleague – as well-meaning at that might be.”
“In these situations, access to consistent, professional, clinical support can make a meaningful difference. It helps individuals to better understand their circumstances, navigate complex emotions, and take informed steps towards resolution and recovery. Without that level of support, issues can become more entrenched, with wider implications for their health, wellbeing, and performance at work.”
