Reached the Final Straw at Christmas? You’re Not Alone
You're not alone if you've hit the final straw this holiday season
December is peak season when it comes to shopping, family time, and festive celebrations. Unfortunately, it’s also the peak season for break-ups.
Why? It could be that they’ve reached the end of another stressful year and realise they don’t want to do it again next year. They might have had too much fun at the Christmas party for work – and now have to go into damage control. Or it might be differing opinions of how to spend the break that sets a couple over the edge.
Whatever the reason you’ve hit the final straw in the holiday season, the most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone. And if your relationship has gone past the point of no return, it might be time to find a family lawyer.
Holiday madness is normal
Santa’s sleigh bells are ringing, and it’s supposed to be the happiest time of the year, right? Right… but that’s not always the case. Financial pressure, lack of free time, family tension, bereavement, regrets from things you didn’t do last year, and even just hot humid weather and overcrowded carparks – these are all contributors to turning the holiday period from happy into snappy.
According to the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale, a clinical tool used to measure how stressed we feel, holidays score 13 and Christmas scores 12, giving a total score of 25. Pretty stressful, right? It’s about as stressful as the first day of school or losing your job, according to the scale.
What can you do?
The experience of Divorce Hub has been that, while December is the peak season for relationship break-ups, January is the peak season for starting legal proceedings and settlements. Before you take that step, why not prepare yourself for the holiday stresses before they take control?
Seek advice from a financial expert to stop yourself from getting into debt. Say no if you find your schedule is getting too busy. Limit drinking in family settings where you might say or do the “wrong thing.” Don’t feel guilty for having a good time, even though you might miss someone special.
It’s extremely normal to be feeling completely burnt out at this time of year. It can all feel like too much. But remember, you don’t have to make any firm decisions right away. If you’re really struggling with your relationship, it can help to find a family lawyer or separation coach who can guide you through the complex feelings you’re experiencing to find clarity about your future. With the help of a divorce coach, you may discover that saving your marriage is what you want most. And if you decide that separation is the best way forward, you’ll have much-needed support to help you (and the kids) through the emotional turmoil of the new year.