For most people, the holidays are about spending time with family, eating, drinking, giving gifts and welcoming the New Year. This can leave many people bewildered when their spouse serves them divorce papers. Just when they thought the New Year was going to be better, it starts on a low note.
But, why do people seek divorce after the holidays? Perhaps it has to do with “divorce month,” the time just after the holidays when divorce rates spike. Here’s what you should know:
Financial difficulties
By the end of the year, it’s one holiday after the next. For some people, the end of the year is no problem, while others start to face financial difficulties (prepping dinners and buying gifts). This can cause a whole lot of stress, especially if one spouse is more lenient with their spending. In some cases, people even face unemployment just before the end of the year, which can cause tension during the holiday.
Seasonal depression
One problem that many people face is seasonal depression. This is possibly due to all of the stress of the holiday and the weather, it could be genetic or it could be caused by the reduced light intake. Whatever the case may be, seasonal depression can create difficulties in a marriage.
Family troubles
Not every family is perfect and, as such, many family members fight during the holiday. While some arguments may not affect your marriage, there could be trouble if you or your spouse get into a heated argument with a beloved family member. This could be because of some kind of resentment or jealousy that leads to issues between spouses.
Avoiding the inevitable
Some people plan for divorce months before the holiday, but, for whatever the case may be, are put off until after the holidays. Many people delay getting a divorce because they don’t want to hurt their spouse any more than they are going to and ruin their holiday. Thus, people seek divorce after the New Year.
If the thought of divorce is itching the back of your mind, then you may need to know your legal options.