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In Sickness and in Health: The Physical Consequences of Emotional Stress in Marriage
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? When you first met your spouse you probably had a physical response to the emotions you felt. You’d get butterflies in your stomach, your heart would race, and your palms would sweat. So why is it that after you’re married, it’s so hard to make the connection between your physical health and your emotional well-being when you’re facing relational stress? If your emotional pain feels physical and your physical pain feels emotional, your marriage may be making you sick—literally. Join Dr. David Hawkins and his sons, an internist and a surgeon, as they explore the effects relational stress and trauma can have on our bodies. You will learn to . . . No matter what kind of pain you’re experiencing, or how long your health has been in decline, you don’t have to stay stuck. Discover hope and healing when you take control of your life.
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 19, 2019
About the author
David Hawkins
34 books27 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.
The Relationship Doctor
Dr. David Hawkins is a Christian Clinical Psychologist who is a speaker for the American Association of Christian Counselors and has been writing an Advice Column for Crosswalk.com and CBN.org for several years and is now writing for Believe.com. He is a weekly guest on Moody Radio and Faith Radio and is the author of over thirty books. He is happily married to Christie, an Interior Designer, and lives on Bainbridge Island, outside Seattle.
The Relationship Doctor
Dr. David Hawkins is a Christian Clinical Psychologist who is a speaker for the American Association of Christian Counselors and has been writing an Advice Column for Crosswalk.com and CBN.org for several years and is now writing for Believe.com. He is a weekly guest on Moody Radio and Faith Radio and is the author of over thirty books. He is happily married to Christie, an Interior Designer, and lives on Bainbridge Island, outside Seattle.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
January 4, 2021
It was fascinating to read how strife and tension in marriage could be the culprits for creating physical illness. I admit I was intrigued by this book. For anyone who has struggled with codependency, which sadly many women have a tendency to embrace, this is an important read. Of course, men can become codependent, too, but this book deals more with the female side. After all, as an older female, raised in an era when women were taught to be people-pleasers, I readily related to many scenarios in this book.
I truly think this is also a ground-breaking work concerning the fact that extreme emotional stress in marriage might be responsible for creating physical illness. I wish everyone: counselors, pastors, marriage mentors, etc., would have to study this book before they counsel a couple in crisis. It would be a valuable tool for physicians, too, as they ponder what is making their patients so ill. Pioneering material!
I truly think this is also a ground-breaking work concerning the fact that extreme emotional stress in marriage might be responsible for creating physical illness. I wish everyone: counselors, pastors, marriage mentors, etc., would have to study this book before they counsel a couple in crisis. It would be a valuable tool for physicians, too, as they ponder what is making their patients so ill. Pioneering material!
April 8, 2019
When I was a young wife, I eagerly read Christian marriage books. Now, fifteen years into marriage I'm highly selective about what marriage books I read, having recognized that some of them perpetuate lies, unhealthy thinking patterns, and even abuse. Therefore, when I chose to read In Sickness and In Health by David Hawkins, Ph.D.,with Tyson Hawkins, M.D., and Joshua Hawkins, M.D., I went in a bit skeptical, questioning if the authors could marry Christian beliefs with a healthy perspective on struggling marriages.
I'm glad I took the time to read In Sickness and In Health as it fascinated me from the beginning. I knew little to nothing of psychosomatic medicine before reading the book. Much of the information about how mental and emotional stress can impact one's body was totally new to me. I would say at least half the book addresses physical symptoms of stress in marriage before moving on to encouragement for wives in difficult marital situations.
In terms of bias for or against divorce, I'd say In Sickness and In Health stayed pretty neutral. It didn't lean heavily to either side though it did acknowledge that divorce is sometimes necessary. The book doesn't attempt to delve into theological issues regarding divorce. Rather, it focuses on getting the woman to notice her symptoms, acknowledge that a difficult marriage may likely be the source of her physical ailments, and empower women to pursue healing – emotionally, mentally, spiritually, physically, and relationally.
The premise is that when a woman prioritizes and pursues health, she will start the process of making healthy decisions that will likely beget more healthy decisions, healthy patterns, and healthy relationships. Dr. David Hawkins (who is the main author) doesn't attempt to address every issue that a woman may face in a struggling marriage, though plenty of examples are given. He's honest that becoming healthy requires effort and there will be both difficult times and hard decisions.
Hands down, Chapter 10 (Disappointment with God) was my personal favorite as it deals with personal faith as it relates to marriage. He's honest that faith can be a source of confusion for wives when theology is mixed with partial truths and personal thoughts. I liked that Dr. Hawkins affirms that wives are allowed to have healthy boundaries, stand up to abuse, and that God is with the person who puts his or her trust in God. I loved the end of the chapter where he states: “From a crisis, however, we can expect a new life to emerge, a new faith to be reborn.” I have found this true in my own life and marriage.
In Sickness and In Health: The Physical Consequences of Emotional Stress in Marriage by David Hawkins, Ph.D., with Tyson Hawkins, M.D., and Joshua Hawkins, M.D. was highly interesting to me. Because of its honesty, information, and healthy perspective, I can recommend it to wives in difficult situations. Also, women can find a great deal of helpful information in the book in regards to being mentally and emotionally healthy, not just in marriage, but in all of life.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
I'm glad I took the time to read In Sickness and In Health as it fascinated me from the beginning. I knew little to nothing of psychosomatic medicine before reading the book. Much of the information about how mental and emotional stress can impact one's body was totally new to me. I would say at least half the book addresses physical symptoms of stress in marriage before moving on to encouragement for wives in difficult marital situations.
In terms of bias for or against divorce, I'd say In Sickness and In Health stayed pretty neutral. It didn't lean heavily to either side though it did acknowledge that divorce is sometimes necessary. The book doesn't attempt to delve into theological issues regarding divorce. Rather, it focuses on getting the woman to notice her symptoms, acknowledge that a difficult marriage may likely be the source of her physical ailments, and empower women to pursue healing – emotionally, mentally, spiritually, physically, and relationally.
The premise is that when a woman prioritizes and pursues health, she will start the process of making healthy decisions that will likely beget more healthy decisions, healthy patterns, and healthy relationships. Dr. David Hawkins (who is the main author) doesn't attempt to address every issue that a woman may face in a struggling marriage, though plenty of examples are given. He's honest that becoming healthy requires effort and there will be both difficult times and hard decisions.
Hands down, Chapter 10 (Disappointment with God) was my personal favorite as it deals with personal faith as it relates to marriage. He's honest that faith can be a source of confusion for wives when theology is mixed with partial truths and personal thoughts. I liked that Dr. Hawkins affirms that wives are allowed to have healthy boundaries, stand up to abuse, and that God is with the person who puts his or her trust in God. I loved the end of the chapter where he states: “From a crisis, however, we can expect a new life to emerge, a new faith to be reborn.” I have found this true in my own life and marriage.
In Sickness and In Health: The Physical Consequences of Emotional Stress in Marriage by David Hawkins, Ph.D., with Tyson Hawkins, M.D., and Joshua Hawkins, M.D. was highly interesting to me. Because of its honesty, information, and healthy perspective, I can recommend it to wives in difficult situations. Also, women can find a great deal of helpful information in the book in regards to being mentally and emotionally healthy, not just in marriage, but in all of life.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
July 15, 2019
Reading this book was a little difficult for me, because it triggered a lot of emotional symptoms. I had to read slowly and take breaks. However, I felt like there was quite a bit of great information here for those who have struggled in challenging relationships, stressful marriages, and are looking for healing.
Dr Hawkins addresses the physical symptoms that stem from emotional issues, which I have seen happen often, at times with myself, very commonly with others. Stress can take a toll on our health, and relationship stress is a very difficult issue to know how to deal with especially if it's in your marriage.
Dr Hawkins helps you see the steps you need to take to begin healing emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Although he does't necessarily advocate divorce, he does advocate that at times a separation is necessary for the hard work of healing to begin and that occasionally distance from the person causing the relationship stress is necessary. I didn't feel like the book was overtly "preachy", and at times I would have liked to have seen more Scripture guidance throughout the book to support the author's suggestions and ideas. However, overall, I felt like it was a very educational book, that was beneficial in pointing out triggers, reactions, bad coping skills, how our emotions can lead to physical illness, and how to begin dealing with it so we can become whole healthy people again. I would love to have had the opportunity to sit down in a few sessions with Dr. Hawkins and get his help and advice with things that I've had to deal with in my life, and see what his advice would be.
I would recommend this book. I received this book from Harvest House Publishers but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Dr Hawkins addresses the physical symptoms that stem from emotional issues, which I have seen happen often, at times with myself, very commonly with others. Stress can take a toll on our health, and relationship stress is a very difficult issue to know how to deal with especially if it's in your marriage.
Dr Hawkins helps you see the steps you need to take to begin healing emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Although he does't necessarily advocate divorce, he does advocate that at times a separation is necessary for the hard work of healing to begin and that occasionally distance from the person causing the relationship stress is necessary. I didn't feel like the book was overtly "preachy", and at times I would have liked to have seen more Scripture guidance throughout the book to support the author's suggestions and ideas. However, overall, I felt like it was a very educational book, that was beneficial in pointing out triggers, reactions, bad coping skills, how our emotions can lead to physical illness, and how to begin dealing with it so we can become whole healthy people again. I would love to have had the opportunity to sit down in a few sessions with Dr. Hawkins and get his help and advice with things that I've had to deal with in my life, and see what his advice would be.
I would recommend this book. I received this book from Harvest House Publishers but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
February 5, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harvest House Publishers through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book deals with stress and how it affects many women – not only emotionally, but how it physically makes one sick.
It was a bit difficult to follow in the beginning, but with perseverance it became easier. This book is very informative and could be very interesting if you were dealing with stress in your life.
I must admit I had a bit of a scuffle reading this book because I am not the type of person that will allow myself to get sick from stress. So it was hard for me to relate to the struggles. Nonetheless, the book makes for an interesting read and I would recommend it to people who are dealing with stress and the effects thereof on their health.
This book deals with stress and how it affects many women – not only emotionally, but how it physically makes one sick.
It was a bit difficult to follow in the beginning, but with perseverance it became easier. This book is very informative and could be very interesting if you were dealing with stress in your life.
I must admit I had a bit of a scuffle reading this book because I am not the type of person that will allow myself to get sick from stress. So it was hard for me to relate to the struggles. Nonetheless, the book makes for an interesting read and I would recommend it to people who are dealing with stress and the effects thereof on their health.
March 3, 2019
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Are you worn out? Not sure where to turn to or why you can't shake something. In Sickness and In Health shows how any type of stress will lead to illness if not taken care of. It examines if one is sick, how to take ahold of their stress and treat it. This book is a good book for those who are counseling. It provides solutions to help those who have been through traumatic events in their life deal with stress. Overall, great thoughts to ponder in this book.
November 30, 2020
This book provides excellent food for thought for providers of both physical and emotional services. Also, is a great read for someone looking for solutions to their own health problems.
January 26, 2021
Enlightening and informative book!
September 10, 2024
This book is incredible! It helped me realize I am not alone in my suffering and that the psychological abuse I ensure really was abuse, so many people don't understand psychological abusive.
January 3, 2019
This is an eye-opening book about how stress leads to physical illness. This book is a must read for any woman that is under stress. I will refer back to this book often. Thank you Harvest House Publishers via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. This is my honest opinion of this book.
February 3, 2019
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through Net Galley. While much of the information in this book was relevant and intriguing, I found it to be repetitive and not overly well written. The pieces from a medical perspective often seemed more anecdotal then evidence based. This is a good book to read for information or for those involved in counseling, but its style and lack of clear path of action wouldn't make it one I would recommend to those struggling.
February 15, 2019
This book examines how relationships can make a person physically sick and ways to treat this. Specifically, it looks at the effects of traumatic abuse—whether physical or emotional— on women.
This is a topic that usually is uncomfortable for people to discuss. For the women afflicted, there is often a belief that it is “all in their heads”. For the practitioners, depending on their areas of specialization, they may not have received training that equips them to treat their patients on this level. Throughout the book, the author discusses each of the physical effects and demonstrates their connection to the cause of relationship stress. In addition, the author, who is a psychiatrist, and his two sons, who are both medical doctors, contribute insights and counsel geared toward promoting healing.
The author emphasizes that there are no overnight cures for this situation. However, the information presented in this book serves to begin the conversation about this issue and to bring it to the forefront of the treatment considerations provided to the person in this relationship issue. Definitely, this is a necessary book for our present time as this issue of relationship stress that affects the mind and the body becomes more prevalent.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley. However, the thoughts expressed are totally my own.
This is a topic that usually is uncomfortable for people to discuss. For the women afflicted, there is often a belief that it is “all in their heads”. For the practitioners, depending on their areas of specialization, they may not have received training that equips them to treat their patients on this level. Throughout the book, the author discusses each of the physical effects and demonstrates their connection to the cause of relationship stress. In addition, the author, who is a psychiatrist, and his two sons, who are both medical doctors, contribute insights and counsel geared toward promoting healing.
The author emphasizes that there are no overnight cures for this situation. However, the information presented in this book serves to begin the conversation about this issue and to bring it to the forefront of the treatment considerations provided to the person in this relationship issue. Definitely, this is a necessary book for our present time as this issue of relationship stress that affects the mind and the body becomes more prevalent.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley. However, the thoughts expressed are totally my own.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews