Divorce in 2020 can be tough – but help is at hand

No two ways about it, 2020 is a tough year.

Many of us have faced problems and had to make changes to our daily lives we would never have dreamed of even a year ago.

Months of lockdown, loss of routine, financial pressures, health concerns, separation from loved ones – the list of unsettling situations we are having to negotiate seems endless – and at times overwhelming.

Even in more normal years, going through separation and divorce can be stressful and destabilising. Throw a global pandemic on top and it’s no wonder that people need support.

Fortunately we have come an awful long way in the last decade in recognising and acknowledging that good mental health is every bit as important as good physical health. This year’s World Mental Health Day on Saturday October 10th will again focus attention on the need to look after ourselves.

World Mental Health Day 2020 logo: divorce and mental health

2020’s theme is Mental Health for All – reminding us that everyone, regardless of age, gender, lifestyle, race or religion can suffer at times in our lives.

We, of course, are particularly concerned with the mental health of those going through the additional weight of divorce.

Divorce is often referred to as the second most traumatic life experience, after the death of a loved one.

Navigate a new path post-divorce

Those in a marriage that’s ending can feel they are left to navigate a new path by themselves. While family and friends will naturally rally to support the bereaved. In divorce, there may be circumstances where those people feel inclined to take sides, denying a natural route of support. Similarly, while an employer would know about a close bereavement, they may not necessarily be aware the reason an employee isn’t their normal self is because they’re going through divorce or separation.

Relationship breakdown can be a challenge to the strongest of people. It causes emotional waves ranging from anxiety to anger, resentment, shame and helplessness.

The stress of divorce can lead to depression and further problems such as a reliance on alcohol or drugs.

But our view – and the point of this blog – is to reassure people they are not alone in divorce.

In most cases, family lawyers and their teams have many years of experience of dealing with these situations of conflict. While divorce can be a tough period, it will pass. Lives can be rebuilt, however unlikely that may seem to those directly involved.

Network of support

We have built a fantastic network of professionals who can offer support and guidance. This has repeatedly proved its worth over the years.

We frequently remind clients they are not alone and there are many others experiencing the same emotions. We can signpost to a wealth of assistance for those without an emotional support group or who require specialist help

Divorce can seem a lonely place – but our holistic approach means we can help you access other areas of support.

→ Earlier this year we put together this helpful list of organisations who can assist with mental health issues as well as legal support, domestic abuse and other divorce-related issues. And here’s a link to the Counselling Directory which lists practitioners in your area.

I WILL BE ETERNALLY GRATEFUL. AMANDA MAKES YOU FEEL LIKE YOU ARE HER ONLY CLIENT AND HOLDS YOUR HAND TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH