The phenomenon known as ‘divorce month,’ which experts often associate with the month of January, is characterized by a significant increase in divorce applications and proceedings. Let’s learn more about it!
Why Is January Known As The Divorce Month?
This surge in marital dissolution is believed to be influenced by various factors, primarily related to the holiday season. Family and divorce lawyer Cassandra Kalpaxis of Kalpaxis Legal sheds light on this trend and provides insights on how couples can navigate the festive season to support their relationships.
January’s reputation as ‘divorce month’ stems from the notable rise in divorce cases during this period. While there are typically multiple factors contributing to a couple’s decision to end their marriage, the holiday season plays a substantial role in intensifying existing pressures.
According to Kalpaxis, the stress associated with Christmas, where couples are often exposed to their families and in-laws, can serve as a catalyst for divorce. Couples who decide to part ways during the festive season often initiate the legal proceedings in April and May.
Beyond familial pressures, financial stress emerges as a significant contributor to the strains experienced during the holiday season. The cost of living, coupled with the financial obligations associated with gifts and entertaining friends and family, exacerbates financial pressure for many families
Kalpaxis notes that disparities in financial understanding or expectations between partners can lead to overextending themselves financially to please their spouse, further intensifying stress and potentially causing feelings of isolation and abandonment.
The ‘new year, new me’ mentality also plays a role in the January divorce trend. The start of the year prompts many couples to reflect on the state of their relationship, as they often have time off from work to consider their lives and contemplate changes. Throughout the holiday season, couples may postpone addressing significant issues, choosing to keep things together for the sake of their family and plans. Increased proximity during this period encourages a ‘new year, new me’ mindset, as couples aim to start afresh and clear out lingering conflicts.
To maintain a tension-free festive season, Kalpaxis emphasizes the importance of being realistic and transparent about financial matters. Aligning approaches to holiday finances, setting budgets for family activities, and adhering to them can prevent last-minute overspending that strains budgets.
Flexibility also plays a crucial role, especially when extended families and children are involved. The divorce lawyer suggests that without flexibility, conflicts can escalate quickly, potentially leading to acrimonious separations.
Encouraging clients to recall their time together as a couple during previous holiday seasons helps foster a sense of common sense and realism about expectations.
In conclusion, ‘divorce month’ in January is marked by a significant increase in divorce applications and proceedings, often driven by the pressures of the holiday season, financial stress, and the ‘new year, new me’ mentality.
To ensure a harmonious festive season, couples are advised to maintain transparency and alignment in their financial approach, set realistic budgets, and prioritize flexibility in their interactions, particularly when children and extended families are involved.
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