Things are not easy right now. 2020 didn’t get off to the best of starts on a global level and if you’ve found yourself reading this article, you are probably not particularly happy about how your personal life is going either. However, due to the COVID-19 lockdown, normal life is severely affected in certain countries which means that making already hard decisions was made much harder. In case you’re thinking about getting a divorce at this time, there are some things you need to think about in order to see if this is the right path to take with everything that is happening in the world.
Do you understand the reason why you want a divorce?
For starters, are you aware of the reason why you want to get a divorce right now? Is this issue that you are having something new or has it been around for a while? Can you possibly wait for a bit longer until life gets back to normal?
Seeing as how most of the world is advised to stay at home and only go out when absolutely necessary, it’s not uncommon to start arguing with your partner over small things and make a mountain out of a molehill. If the argument escalates, you might make an impulsive decision and threaten divorce. However, this is probably said in the heat of the moment and you don’t really mean it. But, it can make your home situation much worse especially because you have to be around each other 24/7. Silly, little arguments are normal in such conditions but don’t say something you might regret.
On the other hand, maybe your relationship has simply fizzled out and both you and your partner know it. Therefore, if the split is amicable, perhaps you can live together a little bit longer and help each other out during these trying times. There will always be time to sign the official papers, as long as you’re staying healthy during this pandemic.
Finally, if the reason you are looking for divorce is abuse, physical or psychological, it’s only natural that you want it done as soon as possible. Being confined to your home with your abuser can be life-threatening so you need to look for ways to get out of that situation fast. Use incognito or private tabs to see your options and find help.
Can your marriage be saved?
If you are not entirely sure why you want a divorce or are not even sure if you want to go through with it,go through with it, perhaps you still think that the marriage can be saved. Maybe you still love your spouse, maybe you want to stay together for the kids or maybe you just like the financial security. Whichever the reason, you can look for some counselling. See whether any therapists work despite the lockdown and try to book an appointment. On the other hand, some experts offer help online.
What options do you have?
In case you think there is no hope for the marriage, start looking into your options. Go online and see what is necessary in order to get a divorce. Are the courts and various offices open? It’s not uncommon for all these institutions to be closed down to protect the health of their employees and visitors. On the other hand, some courts have implemented online ways of filing for petitions and having a video conference with a judge. Set up a consultation with expert family lawyers in your area to see what options you have at your disposal.
Do you have a support system?
Once you decide to go through with the divorce, you need to understand that, even though this is something you wanted, life might still be a bit hard and you will need adjusting. Do you have a support system in place that can help you with certain things? Will your friends and family side with you or take the side of your spouse? Being alone after this life-changing decision can be very tough so consider finding a reliable therapist and talking to them regularly, even if only over video chats.
Will you be financially independent?
The world is changing at a rapid pace. Businesses are unexpectedly closing, people are losing their jobs and unemployment is getting higher. If you have a job, are you sure you will not lose it in the near future? If you don’t already have one, will you be able to find a job that will help you support yourself and potentially your kids as well? Where will you live? Can you afford a new place or are you hoping to get the house after the divorce? There are many financial aspects to think about.
Of course, if you are unhappy in your relationship and need to get out, not even the coronavirus should stop you. Even if divorce is not an option right now, you can still try out separation and move out. Consult professionals for the best course of action and do what you think is best for you.
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About the author:
Alexis is a Sydney-based part-time lifestyle writer and a full-time mom of two. Her words carry the richness of her travelling and parenting adventures, offer advice and inspiration to those who desire to improve their lives. Outside of the office, she takes pleasure in spending precious time with her youngsters and absorbing the happiness they constantly radiate.