Easing The Stress Of Your Family Law Matter

Why put you need to put your child first in a divorce

On Behalf of | Jul 30, 2022 | Child Custody & Support

Unfortunately, many marriages end in divorce. Although this is sometimes best for everyone concerned, you must put your child(ren) first when considering custody and divorce.

It is easy to lose sight of what is truly important during an emotional divorce. One of the most important things you will deal with during this trying time is your children. Remember, the divorce affects them too.

Long-term effects of divorce on children

The long-term effects of divorce are:

  • Increase in problems adjusting to new situations
  • Increase in developmental problems
  • Increase in mental illnesses such as attachment disorder, depression and anxiety
  • Increase in declining academic and social achievements and milestones
  • Increase in risk of developing addictions or addictive behavior

These risks are common after all divorces but become especially apparent in high-conflict divorces.

Reducing the long-term effects of divorce on children

Fortunately, keeping your children at the forefront of a divorce can help to reduce these effects. Some of the things you can do are:

  • Maintain a healthy relationship with your child regardless of what is going on
  • Use consistent discipline methods between you and your ex-spouse
  • Co-parent without fighting
  • Teach coping skills
  • Do not put your children in the middle of your divorce
  • Talk to your children about what is happening calmly and respectfully.

Keeping things civil and working with your ex-spouse can help your children learn to deal with the changes without endangering their mental health.

Having children means you are responsible for their health and happiness. This means putting their needs first, even during a high-tension situation like a divorce.