Let's Keep Divorce Off the Christmas List

Christmas and the holiday season are tantalisingly close, but now is the time couples need to be wary of pressures that could wreak havoc with a relationship.

Social and financial pressures around Christmas and the holiday season too often can destroy relationships, and so it’s important for couples to recognise the early warning signs.

Unfortunately we see a lot of marriage breakdowns over the holidays with emotional and financial pressures at their peak.

Couples under-estimate the enormous pressures the Christmas/ New Year holiday season can place on a relationship.

There are enormous financial pressures on many people at this time of the year. The bills don’t stop coming and with Christmas gifts and holidays, it can place a huge financial burden on people in the New Year.

There is enormous pressure on people to buy items for Christmas, but too often, arguments over money and especially affordability can split a family.

Family lawyers see this at first hand as we deal with the consequences, such as the process of formally dissolving relationships.

It’s important to realise there are ways to prevent a relationship breakdown in the New Year. Couples need to work together to deal with financial problems before they occur.

A close watch on spending, especially credit card spending, is important at this time of the year. It’s too easy to just put Christmas on the plastic then panic in January/ February when the bills arrive.

Couples experiencing difficulties with finances should see financial counsellors or a budgeting service

"But things are hard. It feels like divorce would be easier!"

Divorce is not a decision to be taken lightly and may well be more stressful than the shared financial situation you find yourself in.

Couples need to acknowledge this is a highly emotional time, and anticipate the problems before they arise.

Avoid situations where alcohol and family stress are mixed, especially if you are hosting visiting relatives who may not contribute to the seasonal costs but simply eat and drink the place dry.

Relationship problems can also impact heavily on children. Parents need to put the wellbeing of their children as a first priority.

Take action to prevent divorce before it is too late

Family Lawyers often see these people after the relationship has broken down. The atmosphere is strained, sometimes volatile and too often there’s no great wish to resolve things reasonably.

Recognise the warning signs and take action to prevent the relationship breaking down. Meet with our Divorce Coach to see how you can thrive within your relationship, or take steps if separation is inevitable.

We've tried but it's just not going to work

If divorce is inevitable, make sure you consider options to reach agreement which have the least amount of impact on your children. A divorce without court is better for families. If divorce is inevitable, consider having an amicable divorce.