top of page
Search

How to Navigate the January Divorce Surge: A Guide for Couples Seeking Resolution and Peace

angiehowlettconfli

January symbolizes fresh starts and new resolutions. Interestingly, it also marks the peak month for divorce filings in Canada. This trend invites reflection on the relationship challenges many face during this time. Understanding the factors contributing to this surge can help you address your own relationship uncertainties.


In this guide, we’ll dive into the common reasons for this January trend, practical solutions for navigating it, and steps you can take to find clarity if you're contemplating ending your marriage.


The Reasons Behind January's Divorce Surge


"New Year, New Me"


As the calendar flips to January, many individuals engage in self-reflection, aiming to enhance various aspects of their lives through New Year’s resolutions. For some, this introspection leads to serious evaluations of intimate relationships.


Consider this: a survey conducted by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers reported that 65% of divorce attorneys see an increase in inquiries right after the holidays. This desire for self-improvement can ignite the need to end a relationship that feels unfulfilling or unsafe. Reflecting on your resolutions and asking how your relationship aligns with your personal growth or family goals can help you to find clarity, but you may struggle to do this on your own. Consider who plays a vital role in your support system and what gaps you may need to fill (more on this later).


Family Dynamics During the Holidays


During the holiday season, many couples hesitate to file for divorce, opting instead to protect their family unit from the stress and disruption that often accompany these discussions. A sense of duty to create a joyful environment for children can lead couples to postpone difficult decisions.


However, once the festive season concludes, the urge to act can become stronger. Many couples may feel a sense of liberation and urgency to address unhappiness, resulting in a spike in divorce filings come January.


The Impact of Seasonal Depression


The winter months bring about psychological effects for many, especially those affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This condition can lower mood levels significantly, prompting individuals to reevaluate their situation and how they got there, including their relationships.


Statistics show that approximately 5% of adults suffer from SAD, with women experiencing it four times more than men. If feelings of sadness are overwhelming, consider how these seasonal changes impact your relationship. Acknowledging these external factors is crucial for understanding your feelings and relationship dynamics.


High angle view of a cozy winter living room with soft lighting
Depression can start to set in after the holiday season has ended, which causes individuals to re-evaluate factors influencing their happiness

What To Do If You're Considering Divorce


If uncertainty about your marriage weighs on you, know that you are not alone. Here are actionable steps to help clarify your situation:


Speak to a Counsellor


Starting a conversation with a qualified counsellor can clear the fog. These professionals help uncover issues that might be overlooked. A solutions-focused counsellor can guide you in understanding your feelings, improving communication, and working toward mutually beneficial resolutions.


For instance, couples who participate in counselling often report a 70% increase in relationship satisfaction after just a few sessions.


Consult a Collaborative or Family Law Lawyer


If counselling has not been successful and you have decided to get a divorce, consulting a collaborative or family law lawyer is essential. These experts will help you grasp the legal aspects of separation and outline your next steps. A lawyer who values collaboration can ease tensions and foster a less adversarial process.


For some divorcing couples, skipping this step seems to be the most cost effective with several "DIY" options available that can help ease the burden of legal fees. However, in high conflict and/or complex cases, hiring a lawyer is inevitable. With increasing awareness about the high costs of retaining a lawyer, some law firms are evolving the way that they do fees. Compassionate, results-oriented, and family focused lawyers are committed to flat-rate billing so you know exactly what to expect based on your needs. Divorces are stressful enough. Now, insurmountable legal fees can be one less stressor as you begin your new journey.


Hire a Mediator


In Saskatchewan, new family laws require couples to demonstrate that they have attempted early family dispute resolution like mediation or a parent coordination, before pursuing divorce. Hiring a family mediator can significantly streamline discussions about parenting time, section 7 expenses and division of assets that will satisfy child support provisions by a judge.


A mediator serves as an impartial third party, guiding both partners through discussions to reach mutual agreements. This approach not only minimizes legal expenses but also reduces stress during a challenging time. The mediator acts as a compass while you and your soon-to-be-ex-partner are the captains of your ship. Click here for a list of recognized family mediators in Saskatchewan.


Close-up view of a quiet mediation room set up for discussions
Early Family Dispute Resolution such as mediation or parenting coordination can shorten the process for the divorcing couple by facilitating mutual, collaborative decision making about child support payments, extraordinary expenses and dividing assets before going to court.

Plan a Safe Escape


If your situation involves domestic violence, prioritizing safety is critical. Domestic violence can take many different shapes including but not limited to emotional, financial, mental and physical. Collaborate with trusted friends and professionals to create a safety plan. This may include finding a secure place to stay, accessing support services, and ensuring the well-being of all family members, including pets. Ensure to consult with your trusted realtor, mortgage broker and financial planner to ensure a seamless transition from your family home to your soon-to-be-new family home using the expertise, knowledge and skills that a qualified team of professionals can offer you. Your dedicated team of professionals will work with you and reduce your stress by prioritizing your safety and financial security.


Local shelters and organizations offer essential resources for those escaping abusive environments. Remember, your safety is the highest priority.


Prioritize Self-Care


Amid emotional upheaval, it's vital to focus on self-care. Engage in activities that foster relaxation and rejuvenation. Taking time for yourself helps restore your mental health and allows you to tackle relationship challenges more effectively. Whether it's going for a walk, practicing mindfulness, or simply saying no, developing boundaries will support you in showing up for yourself so you can tackle one of the biggest life transitions you may ever experience.


Regardless of the reason your marriage has come to an end, you deserve to live your best life. You can do this by putting together a team of trusted professionals who can facilitate the process by supporting your mental health and protecting your finances. A forward focused counsellor will help you to draw strong boundaries, re-frame negative belief systems, brainstorm self-care activities and can connect you to valuable resources, such as a team of professionals that can help you during this difficult life transitions. White Dove Counselling and Mediation has collaborated with lawyers who focus specifically on family law, a real estate agent, mortgage broker and financial planner to take the guesswork away from interviewing and ultimately retaining these professionals during an already stressful time. When you work with White Dove Counselling and Mediation as your counsellor and mediator, you will be connected with this team of caring, compassionate professionals, that will support you on every leg of your journey.

6 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page