How Divorce Impacts Families

By: Lori Pedersen L.M.S.W.

As a licensed mental health professional, I work with many individuals, couples, and families who are affected by divorce. I see the devastating effects that breakups can have and am dedicated to helping people develop the skills to cope with experiences like divorce.

Major Disruptions

The decision to divorce causes major changes in the lives of all family members. Some upheaval is inevitable. The main trouble areas are:

1.  Financial: Money becomes a huge problem for most people. The cost of a divorce is extremely high, and two households cost more than one.

2.  Career: Being less focused at work and spending time away from the job for divorce-related appointments takes its toll.

3.  Logistics: Running your home is more difficult because you no longer have a partner to help with daily chores.

4.  Emotional: Most people have periods of depression, sadness, anger, and fatigue.

Lots of Feelings

People who are experiencing the breakup of their marriage can expect to have a wide variety of feelings. Some call it “the crazy time” and there is even a book about divorce with this title. The following complaints are common:

• Poor concentration 
• Nightmares
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Feeling tense
• Nausea
• Gaining/losing weight
• Feeling nervous
• Somatic complaints

How Divorce Impacts Families Cont...