Did you know that the number of divorces tends to spike after the holidays? It’s true! A variety of research has concluded that the holiday season seems to serve as a catalyst of some sort for divorce requests.  In fact, in 2016 a study conducted by the University of Washington found that the above-average divorce filings in March has their origins in the holiday season.

What is it about the holidays that triggers divorce? Well, there are a number of factors at play.

Holiday Hope

The holidays serve as a milestone for many people. Whether it’s a desire for time off of work or the chance to eat tasty treats, people tend to fixate on the holidays and make it their reason to keep going every day. The same can be said of marriages. People like to hope that the holidays, typically portrayed as “joyous” and remembered fondly, can help smooth out marital woes. What actually happens, however, is that the strain of the holiday season reveals even more cracks in the foundation.

Holiday Weakness

The holidays generally see couple spending more time together than normal thanks to vacation days and holiday pay. It also tends to be a particularly stressful time as you rush from one place to another. It should come as no surprise, then, that the combination of frustration and too much time together actually ends up throwing pre-existing cracks into the harsh light of day rather than smoothing them over as hoped.

Holiday Reflection

The holidays, especially New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, tend to be times of reflection for many people. And while the individuals in question might not resolve to get divorced, they probably spend more time than usual thinking about their lives, their goals, and the past year. This is when the relationship issues are most likely to be examined and dwelled upon, and this reflection can lead to the realization that a marriage is neither happy nor salvageable.

Holiday Blues

Finally, it is not uncommon for the holidays to trigger depression in many individuals. This unhappiness can weigh heavily upon a marriage and ultimately serve as the proverbial “last straw” that finally ends it.

Are you contemplating divorce? If so, it is in your best interests to reach out to an experienced attorney who has your best interests in mind. The attorneys at The Bloomston Firm can help! Our skilled lawyers understand that you’re going through a stressful time, and they’d like to help.

Reach out to us today at 205.212.9700 for more information!