My Husband Blames Me For Everything In Our Relationship—What Can I Do?

Medically reviewed by Paige Henry, LMSW, J.D. and Andrea Brant, LMHC
Updated October 10, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team
Content warning: Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that include abuse which could be triggering to the reader. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7. Please also see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.

In a relationship, being constantly blamed by your husband may significantly affect your mental health. The feeling of being responsible for everything that goes wrong in the relationship can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Having honest conversations and setting boundaries may be helpful, and seeking help from a licensed therapist can also be beneficial. You may find a suitable therapist in your local area or through an online therapy platform.

My husband blames me for everything: Understanding blame in a relationship

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The blame game can become a vicious cycle in a relationship.

Blame and emotional distress

Your husband's constant blame may make you feel powerless and trapped, which may lead to emotional distress. It may seem like nothing you do is good enough, and you are always in the wrong. This could create a sense of hopelessness and might even trigger symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Blame and self-esteem

Moreover, being blamed may lead to guilt, shame, and self-doubt. You may feel like you are not a good partner, and your self-esteem could take a significant hit. This could also impact your performance in other areas of life, such as your work or social relationships.

Please note that although this article focuses on husbands, the information here can be applied to any partner in a relationship.

How blame can impact communication and trust

Constantly being blamed may lead to a breakdown in communication. If you feel like you are always wrong, you may avoid talking to your partner about important issues or expressing your needs and desires. This could further strain the relationship and create a cycle of negative emotions.

Unpacking the feeling of “my husband blames me for everything”

The first step in coping with the psychological effects of being blamed may be to recognize that you are not responsible for everything that goes wrong in the relationship. It generally takes two people to make a relationship work, and your partner should also take responsibility for their actions.

Cultivating understanding in your relationship

Establishing clear communication and setting boundaries may create a healthier relationship dynamic. It might be beneficial to have an honest conversation with your partner about the issue and try to find a constructive way forward. Finally, getting professional help from a therapist could also help you work through the psychological effects of being constantly blamed by your husband.

Moving away from blame and toward responsibility

Communicating with your husband about his tendency to blame you for everything can be a challenging but essential step in breaking the cycle of negative emotions. It may be necessary to approach the conversation calmly and assertively, focusing on your feelings and experiences rather than blaming or attacking your partner.

Use “I” statements when navigating conflict

One approach could be to use "I" statements to express how their behavior makes you feel.

For example, you could say, "I feel hurt and frustrated when you constantly blame me for everything," instead of, "You always blame me for everything, and it's not fair."

Strengthen communication and rebuild trust

Try to listen to your husband's perspective, and try to understand where their blame may be coming from. This can help you find ways to communicate and work together to improve your relationship. If you find that communication still seems to be difficult or unproductive, seeking the help of a professional therapist could provide a safe and neutral space for you to work through your issues and develop healthy communication skills.

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The impact of blame on your physical health

Constantly being blamed by your husband might significantly impact your physical health. The stress and anxiety that may come with the blame could lead to various physical symptoms, such as headaches, muscle tension, and even digestive issues. In addition, the constant blame could lead to a sense of powerlessness and a lack of control in the relationship. This could increase the risk of depression and other mental health conditions, which could further impact your physical health.

If you are experiencing the psychological effects of being blamed by your husband, it may be essential to seek help to manage your emotional and physical well-being. Online therapy could be a practical option that may provide a convenient and flexible way to get the support you need.

How to navigate conflict and move forward

It may be frustrating and disheartening if your husband blames you for everything and refuses to change his behavior. However, there are some steps that you might take to defend your mental health and well-being.

Set clear boundaries and limits

One option could be to set clear boundaries with your husband and tell him that you will not tolerate his constant blaming. This could include asking him to stop the behavior, telling him how his blame makes you feel, and setting consequences if he continues to blame you.

Take responsibility for your mental health and well-being

It might be essential to prioritize your self-care and well-being. This could include seeking support from friends and family, engaging in healthy coping strategies like meditation or exercise, and seeking the help of a professional therapist.

In some cases, it may be necessary to consider leaving the relationship if your husband's blaming behavior is causing significant harm to your mental health and well-being. A therapist can provide guidance and support as you navigate these difficult decisions and work toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.

How online therapy can help you cope

Seeking help from a therapist may be beneficial to work through your emotions and develop healthy coping strategies. Online therapy can be a valuable resource for individuals coping with the psychological effects of being blamed by their partners. One benefit of online therapy may be that it provides a safe and comfortable environment for individuals to explore their emotions from the comfort of their homes. Online therapy can empower individuals to express their feelings without the fear of being judged. 

The effectiveness of online therapy for relationship concerns

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Learn the signs of healthy relationship communication

The research on the efficacy of marital and family therapy suggests that therapy can be an effective tool for individuals coping with the psychological effects of being blamed by their partners. A study published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy found that therapy generally reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress related to relationship conflict. Additionally, therapy may help individuals and couples develop more effective communication skills, set boundaries, and practice problem-solving techniques that could help them manage conflict and reduce blame. As another study explains, both online and in-person marriage therapy can be effective tools for couples.

Takeaway

Being constantly blamed by your husband or partner may significantly impact your mental health and overall well-being. It can lead to feelings of powerlessness, anxiety, and depression, and can also strain communication in the relationship. However, professional help may be a valuable resource for individuals coping with the psychological effects of being blamed. Online therapy may provide a comfortable and safe space to explore your emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.
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