Breakups can be messy—especially when the matter becomes a more public one. In recent months, celebrity breakups have become topics of much discussion. In recent memory, there was Richard Gutierrez and Sarah Lahbati, Jericho Rosales and Kim Jones, Catriona Gray and Sam Milby, and Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque, among others.
The latest addition to the list is of long-term Kapuso couple Barbie Forteza and Jak Roberto. ICYMI, the pair broke up after seven years of being together, announcing the split in early January 2025. This breakup then became the launching pad for many on the Internet to discuss the "Seven Year Itch."
ALSO READ: Barbie Forteza And Jak Roberto's Seven-Year Relationship Timeline
What is the The Seven-Year Itch?
The seven-year itch is a phenomenon that may have first started because of Marilyn Monroe's film of the same name. But since its 1955 release, many couples have been in fear of this notion. The movie follows a married guy who gets bored with his life and starts having fantasies about other women. But is there any psychology-based truth to it? Cosmo talked to MindNation psychologist and relationship expert Lian Ma. Kolbe Lucena to help uncover the facts.
Through our conversation with Lian, we found out that experts actually acknowledge the idea of the "seven-year itch," which suggests many couples experience a dip in satisfaction around this time in their union. "This might show up as more disagreements, less affection, or feeling disconnected," said Lian. Although, she assures us that this doesn't apply to all, so don't worry too much. It's not a one-size-fits-all situation. "Every relationship is different, and challenges can come at any time depending on factors like communication, changes, and personal growth. So, while the concept has some truth to it, it's more of a general trend than a fixed timeline," she added.
What do relationship experts think about the "Seven-Year itch?"
According to Lian, as a psychologist in this line of specialization, she sees the seven-year itch as "a concept that's often associated with relationships going through a rough patch. It highlights the natural ebb and flow of relationships." But again, she emphasizes the importance of knowing that every partnership is different and that there is no set timeline for when challenges may come.
"Relationships evolve and so do the individuals in them."
Through her experience working in couples therapy, she says it's pretty common for couples to come in with challenges in feeling stuck in routines or even feeling disconnected from their partner. "Life gets busy—careers, kids, finances—and it's easy for couples to lose sight of the emotional connection that brought them together. Resentments can build if issues go unaddressed and communication can break down when people start feeling unheard or unappreciated." At the same time, Lian says that individual growth can also sometimes feel out of sync. "One partner might be evolving in a different direction, which can create tension or lead to doubts about compatibility."
However, these aren't signs that the relationship is doomed, says Lian. "They're a sign it needs attention. It's about learning how to reconnect, communicate, and adapt together." Although several couples face these common challenges that come to Lian, she says what stands out is their commitment to make things work. "Many couples come in because they still love each other and want to reconnect. They focus on what brought them together in the first place and are willing to forgive, accept, and grow together. Therapy gives them a space to talk openly and find tools to move forward instead of giving up when things get hard." Lian says.
There are ample resources that can help lovers with these problems, like organizations, clinics, and professionals they can reach out to. Among the channels couples who are going through challenges can check out is MindNation, which Lian is part of.
Is there a scientific study about the "Seven-Year itch"?
Lian says the idea of the "seven-year itch" is not backed by a single definitive study. However, there is research that does support the notion that relationship satisfaction tends to decline over time for many couples. "For instance, a study by Kurdek (1998), found that marital satisfaction often starts high in the early years of the relationship, which is commonly called the honeymoon phase. But, this declines as couples face challenges like managing responsibilities, raising children, or balancing work and family life."
Another research that highlights how couples navigate these transitions differently is the 2010 study by Lavner and Bradbury. It found that some experience gradual declines in satisfaction, while others may stabilize or even improve their relationship. Lian says the "seven years specifically might just be a symbolic marker for when these issues tend to accumulate."
Sooo... should couples be afraid of the "seven-year itch?"
In our conversation, Lian voiced that the "seven-year itch" is more about a relationship potentially experiencing a rough patch. So, instead of seeing it as something to fear, couples can instead see it as an opportunity to reassess their relationship and maybe even grow together. "If you're in a good relationship, you shouldn't worry about it. But, if you feel disconnected from your partner, that's a good time to talk things over and figure out how to make things better."
Myths about the "Seven-Year Itch"
The "seven-year itch" is inevitable.
First, the fear might come from one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding the pop culture phenomenon, which is that the seven-year itch is an inevitable point where all relationships start to fall apart. "The truth is, not every couple hits a rough patch at exactly seven years—it can happen earlier, later, or not at all."
The "seven-year itch" is a sign the relationship is doomed.
The second myth surrounding the seven-year itch that Lian sees is that it's a sign that the relationship is doomed. "Challenges at this stage are often more about natural transitions, like managing responsibilities, raising kids, and personal growth rather than the relationship failing."
The "seven-year itch" is caused by boredom or falling out of love.
Finally, the third myth is about The Seven Year Itch film and how it contributed to the belief that the seven-year itch phenomenon is caused by boredom or falling out of love. But in reality, it's usually more complex. "It's often tied to communication struggles, unresolved issues, or external stress, all of which can be worked through with effort and understanding," Lian said.
At the same time, celebrity breakups can also play into the whole seven-year-itch idea. "When high-profile couples split up, it gets splashed all over the news and it makes people think that relationships are supposed to last a certain amount of time. But the truth is, every relationship is different, and there is no magic number for how long things should last." And yes, this applies even to celebrities and their relationships.
"Media coverage can sensationalize the challenges that couples face, often framing them as inevitable and insurmountable," says Lian. So, instead of focusing on the drama of breakups, sharing stories about couples who've been together for a long time and maybe even uncovering what makes their relationship work would be a better way of framing. "That kind of positive, realistic portrayal would be a lot more helpful than all the hype around the seven-year itch," Lian adds.
What can couples do to keep their relationship strong?
There are a lot of things couples can do to keep their relationship strong, according to Lian. It can start with scheduling regular date nights, which is a classic for a reason. "It gives you dedicated time to connect and have fun together. Keeping the fire burning and fulfilling each other's love tanks by trying new things together keeps the spark alive and can help you see your partner in a fresh light," she says. Not letting the communication fall by the wayside is another way. "Make a point of checking in with each other regularly, even if it's just a few minutes."
Moreover, Lian asserts that it is important to note that therapy doesn't have to only be reserved for when a relationship is struggling. It can be a proactive habit for couples who want to maintain and strengthen their bond with each other. "Taking the time to regularly check in with each other—whether through therapy, counseling, or intentional conversations—can help address minor concerns before they grow into bigger issues."
At the same time, there are other exercises couples can look into as well—they can try journaling and reflecting on their relationship, and setting goals for the future. Guided conversations are also an option, where a couple can take turns talking about their feelings and needs without interruption. "You might also enjoy doing an activity together that gets you out of your comfort zone, like trying a new hobby or sport," suggests Lian.
Those kinds of shared experiences can help bring couples closer together. Active listening can also improve communication skills, advises Lian. "For those seeking to address deeper concerns or enhance meaningful connections, organizations like MindNation offer specialized WellBeing Bundles and programs designed to foster stronger relationships and connections."
How couples can reclaim the "Seven-Year Itch"
Of course, even with all the negativity surrounding the seven-year itch, couples can instead take this chance to reconnect and rebuild their relationship with one another, according to Lian. "Think of it like a fresh start—you've learned a lot about yourself and your partner, and now you can use that knowledge to make things even better."
Ending our conversation, Lian says, that by addressing issues and openly working as a team, couples can deepen their connection to build a more resilient relationship. Life happens and relationships can get affected by them, but seven-year itch or not, it's always the determination and the work that makes all the difference.
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