relationship

There are more unmarried people now than ever before in the United States. True, some people are committed and just not tying the knot, but many just haven't found their special someone. That's despite the growing number of dating apps like Hinge, Match, Tinder, Bumble and OK Cupid.

So how can you increase your chances of finding a mate? Two dating coaches -- one in Atlanta, the other near San Diego -- spoke about their approach to finding love for their clients.

Check your inner dialogue

But the reality for many people is nothing like this - and you might find your friends turning to you for help.

"For a lot of our callers, every day is a struggle, but Christmas can be more of a struggle than usual," says Samaritans volunteer Nadine Barr.

Here's how she recommends you support the people you love.

Listen

Samaritans takes over 5.4 million calls every year, and Nadine says bereavement, loneliness and money are all common problems for people at this time of year.

It seems like everyone has a theory about what it takes to live happily ever after, and no two people seem to agree. But science tells us what appears most likely to lead to relationship bliss. Here's how the research advises that we tackle three of the major challenges we face when trying to find, and keep, that special someone:

1. What to Look For In a Mate: Someone Agreeable, Conscientious, and Emotionally Stable