There are numerous studies that discuss the impact of divorce on children. However, splitting from your spouse can have long-term effects if you overlook the immediate needs of your children.
When you know how to help your children, you might mitigate any negative repercussions. You may encourage resilience and success despite the circumstances when you show adequate support and unconditional love.
Mental health problems
Divorce can take a lot of your time as you respond to legal inquiries, negotiate settlements and protect what remains of your family. If you are not careful, you might unknowingly neglect your children’s needs. According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, 25% of children from divorced families experience behavioral or emotional difficulties compared with 10% of children from families with married parents.
Feelings of insecurity, guilt, overwhelming sadness and confusion could develop into mental health problems. This may include the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
Relationship difficulties
Another long-term effect of divorce on children is their ability to develop and maintain meaningful relationships. If they do not have an adequate understanding of your divorce and why it happened, they may have a skewed understanding of what happens in a relationship.
You may consider therapy to help your children learn about coping with the challenging emotions brought on by your divorce. Commit to having regular conversations about their lives and concerns. Address questions in an age-appropriate manner. Do your best to communicate amicably with your ex. Your effort to care for your children can help you maintain a relationship with them as you work together to adapt to unexpected circumstances.
