Divorce and separation are some of the most difficult times for families, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, the process has become much more complicated. Many Canadian families are subject to additional stressors due to health protocols. Russell Alexander has a few tips for families going through this difficult time:
- Take time apart: With quarantine and social distancing measures in place, many couples are spending an abnormal amount of time together. It is important for each person to maintain their independence in a relationship, therefore couples should set some time each day where they can each be alone. This can be done by reading a book, exercising, or calling a friend on the phone.
- Set up a daily debrief: It is important that couples maintain communication and express themselves during this time. A good way to accomplish this is by setting up a daily debrief where you can each express things occurring in your everyday life.
- Get a hobby: This new way of living can be hard to adjust to. It is important for families to create and stick to routines. A good way to do this is by finding a hobby for yourself, or that you can do as a family to break up the day and get a distraction from life’s other worries.
- Remember this is only temporary: The pandemic has been unique due to its being an unknown. We do not really know when this will all end, but we do know that we will make it through this. The new stress your relationship is under is not abnormal because this is an abnormal situation.
For more on this topic and some other useful tips, be sure to check out:
Family LLB Family Law Now Podcast: Spouse in the House – How to Avoid Divorce
Family LLB Ontario Divorce Education Centre Blog: Avoiding Divorce by Managing Staying at Home With Your Partner
Family LLB YouTube Channel: Spouse in the House – How to Avoid Divorce
