What may appear as a content relationship can sometimes mask a silent struggle that a man might not express, with feelings of loneliness and unhappiness concealed deep within. Men are often very good at concealing their true emotions, making it challenging for many partners to figure out when something's wrong.

However, subtle changes in behaviour can often reveal a deeper issue - and could be warning signs that a husband or partner is wrestling with difficult emotions. Recognising these signs isn't about laying blame, but can assist men in opening up and discussing their feelings in a healthy manner that could benefit not only them, but also the relationship as a whole.

Here are seven commonly overlooked signs that a man in your life might be struggling:

Men are naturally sociable creatures, desiring social interactions and spending time with their friends.

But a key sign a man may be struggling is if they let social interactions fall by the wayside and stop making an effort with their mates.

From a sudden pattern of declining invitations, to smaller things like avoiding phone calls and texts, men isolating themselves from those around them is often their way of grappling with darker emotions.

Communication breakdown in a relationship could point to deeper issues.

A warning sign emerges when men begin avoiding tough conversations, often downplaying their struggles with assurances like "it's alright" or "I'm fine", while attempting to shoulder burdens alone.

Ironically, this tendency can exacerbate the original problem and might be an indication that it's time to step in with support.

Happiness often stems from hobbies, whether that's enjoying a round of golf or whipping up culinary delights.

However, when dissatisfaction sets in, these activities are typically the first casualties, transforming into laborious tasks and compounding overall unhappiness.

In times of loneliness or discontent, people commonly conceal their true feelings with a happy veneer, mustering false smiles or laughter. This defence mechanism aims to protect against underlying challenges while upholding a positive front within the relationship.

5) Becoming overly generous.

Another common way men mask their emotions is by immersing themselves in the feelings of others.

Offering help and support to others can serve as a diversion from addressing their own emotional turmoil.

However, this intense involvement in others' issues can leave them feeling exhausted and even more isolated than before.

When grappling with deep-seated emotions and beginning to distance themselves from a relationship, minor things that usually wouldn't bother them start to have a significant negative impact.

They may be quick to highlight flaws in otherwise positive experiences and dwell on any minor negative aspects.

Often, trivial matters are blown out of proportion and evolve into larger issues that could potentially harm your relationship.

Men who are unhappy in their marriages often retreat into themselves, becoming less available within the relationship, sometimes without even realising it.

Whether they become less communicative or spend more time alone, when men struggle with loneliness, it can often intensify as they isolate themselves further.