Divorce is difficult to go through on a regular day. Going through a divorce right before or during the holidays is an entirely different and much more difficult endeavor. The holidays are supposed to be joyous times and although there can be increased stress due to finances, travel, and work – but adding a marriage dissolving and a family being torn apart can be too much to bear.
If you’ve recently gone through a divorce and are facing the holidays alone for the first time in a while, it can be tough to deal with heartbreak and depression during such a joyous time. Seeing others be happy with their families while having to come to terms with the fact that yours no longer exists can be tough. The only thing you can do is rely on relatives and friends to help you through it. The worst thing you can do is withdraw and isolate as that will only intensify your negative emotions.
For children of newly divorced parents, the holidays can seem bleak and meaningless as their family dynamic has drastically shifted and eroded. If you’re a recently divorced parent facing the holidays with children, you should do everything you can to make their time easier. Plan a schedule so that they don’t miss time with either parent/family and ensure that their needs are taken care of. This is a horrible event to go through and they’ll likely put on a brave face, but you need to make sure they are looked after.
Spend time with your children and try to avoid discussing the divorce unless they bring it up. While it may be difficult for you to keep it together, it is likely much more difficult for them. Don’t shun and stunt their emotions and thoughts on the divorce as they need to process it in their own way; be open and honest during the discussion and let them know that although the marriage is ended, both you and your ex-spouse still love the child(ren) and will do all you can for them to make sure they are raised right.
Do not unload your emotional baggage on your children — save that for a therapist if needed, but know that you can also speak with friends and relatives about the matter. Try not to let your sadness or anger get the better of you during these discussions, though it is perfectly natural if it happens. Things will be different for a bit, but they will get better.
If you’re discussing divorce with your spouse, or are considering letting them know that the marriage is no longer working for you, contact our offices to speak with a Denver family law attorney who can help you through the process. By speaking with a Denver family law attorney about divorce, you can create a plan to protect your finances and assets so that you don’t lose anything in the negotiations. Call us today for more information regarding Denver divorce and divorce around the holidays so that we can help you get through this tough time.