4 Year Ick

The "four year ick" is a feeling that tends to show up in relationships about 1-3 months before hitting the four-year mark. It's that time when one person starts feeling a bit off, but it's often brushed aside or not noticed until it gets louder. Usually, it's the less experienced partner who starts feeling uneasy, maybe acting a bit distant or picking silly fights. As the fourth-year anniversary approaches and passes, those feelings tend to grow stronger, reaching their peak a few months later. It's a rocky phase where the relationship's vibe can totally change, bringing up all sorts of doubts and issues. Some couples separate during this time, which can be tough, especially for the one who didn't see it coming. But it's not always the end of the road. Couples who've been together for a while tend to find their way back to each other more often than not. After some time apart, they might realize what they were missing and decide to give it another shot. However, not everyone makes it back. Sometimes, one person jumps into a rebound relationship, which can make it harder for the other to wait around. And when they finally figure things out, it might be too late. You can spot this when one person starts pushing for commitments, or when things start feeling routine. It’s common in younger couples, people with anxiety or depression, and people who lack dating experience.