How to Get Through the Holidays as a Divorced Parent

 Posted on December 03, 2018 in Main

Whether you have been divorced for years, or you are only starting the process of ending your marriage, separated parents have many challenges during the holidays. You may feel like it is nearly impossible to get through Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa or other special holidays as a divorced person. However, experts do have some tips for divorced parents which may make your holiday season a little more manageable.

Avoid Bottling Up Your Emotions

Many parents who get divorced are hyper-focused on how the divorce will affect their children. While making sure your children are comfortable is an admirable and important part of being a parent, experts say divorced parents should be careful not to neglect their own emotional needs. Many people experience divorce in a similar way to loss. If you are ending your marriage, you may experience feelings of anger, grief, despair, and even relief. Talking about these feelings with a trusted friend or therapist can help you manage them.

Treat Yourself to Something You Enjoy

The holidays are often thought of as mostly pertaining to children. However, many divorce experts and psychologists encourage adults to get into the holiday spirit if they are able. Treating yourself to a day at the spa, a delicious meal, or simply just relaxing at home can help divorced parents cope with the emotional burden of the holidays.

Do Not Use Drugs and Alcohol to Cope

Studies show that the risk of developing alcoholism rises when a person gets divorced. It can be very tempting to use a couple of extra glasses of wine to cope with the negative emotions associated with divorce. However, doing so may become a habit which is hard to break. Allegations of drug or alcohol abuse can also affect child custody and parenting time decisions.

Start New Traditions as a Single Parent

One of the best ways you can make the holiday season seem a little more personal is to start your own family traditions. Divorce can leave you feeling terribly lonely and unsure of how to enjoy the holiday season. Starting a new Christmas or holiday ritual with your children can help you establish a new version of the holiday season which works for your new circumstances. Even if you do not end up sharing the actual holiday which your children, doing fun activities when you do have them is one way to keep the holiday spirit alive.

Contact a Compassionate Wheaton Divorce Lawyer for Guidance

If you need legal guidance regarding dissolution of marriage, child custody and visitation, spousal maintenance or alimony, or another aspect of family law, contact the experienced DuPage County family law attorneys at Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick, & Mirabella, LLC. Call us today at 630-665-7300.

Sources:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/divorced-children/200812/managing-divorce-and-children-during-the-holidays

https://www.drugrehab.com/2017/03/21/alcoholism-linked-divorce-studies-suggest/