A Closer Look at the Effects of Divorce on the Family as a Whole

Divorce is extremely hard on a couple. Even when you know it’s the right thing and you’re ready, it creates a sense of grief and loss. But, it isn’t just hard for the two people directly going through it.

It can cast a shadow over the entire family.

Divorce can cause emotional issues and disrupt family dynamics. If not addressed properly, that can lead to long-term problems for all involved. For kids, especially, a divorce can cause a lot of confusion and mixed feelings.

Let’s take a closer look at how divorce affects the family as a whole, and what you can do to minimize its impact.

The Emotional Impact

The emotional strain a divorce can create on a family can feel overwhelming for everyone. Again, even if you know it’s the right thing, it can still create a sense of grief. It’s a loss that everyone will have to process in their own way. It might change your life in a variety of ways. Maybe you’ll have to move out of the home your children are used to. You might have to work more to make up for the second income. That can create a lot of stress and anxiety for you. It might also create feelings of guilt if you have children.

It’s easy to play the blame game when you’re going through a divorce. You might blame yourself for what happened and how it’s impacting your children. Unfortunately, that way of thinking is likely to cause more problems, including a greater risk of developing depression.

Focusing on the Kids

It’s understandable for kids to be confused when their parents divorce. Remember, they’re going through a loss, too, and they might not have the emotional maturity to process it the way you do.

As a result, it’s not uncommon for a divorce to trigger behavioral issues in children. Things like aggression or social withdrawal happen often. You might also notice your child struggle in school. Keep in mind that they could be having a hard time understanding why the divorce is happening and why everyone’s lives have to change. They could also be feeling uncertainty about the future, which can lead to stress and anxiety.

Depending on the age of your children, they might develop self-esteem issues that often stem from confusion and uncertainty. Some children might even blame themselves for your divorce or the changes in your life.

The effects of divorce can be especially hard on kids if they feel like they have to “choose sides.” Being loyal to one parent over another can cause emotional distress and create turmoil within those relationships.

A Path Forward

As a parent, it’s essential to make sure you’re supporting your child through the divorce process. Do whatever you can to co-parent effectively, leaving the reasons for the divorce between you and your former spouse. Use age-appropriate language to explain things to your kids, and reassure them that nothing about the situation is their fault.

Communication

Open communication is hugely important. It’s normal for family members to have questions. While it might be difficult or uncomfortable to discuss, being able to talk about things can help both you and your children process more effectively.

Self-Care

Through it all, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Prioritize your well-being. Things like getting enough sleep, eating properly, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in things you enjoy can all help you move forward.

Next Steps

If you’re struggling with the effects of divorce or you’re not sure how to take the next step forward with your family, you don’t have to do it alone. Therapy is another form of self-care. It can help you process your emotions and work through them so you can start the next chapter of your life while remaining a source of stability and comfort for your family. If you’re ready to take that step, contact me soon to set up an appointment.