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The holiday season is traditionally a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, amidst the festivities, some couples find themselves grappling with the decision to postpone divorce until after the holidays. This phenomenon is very common, and various factors contribute to this strategic delay.

Understanding Their Decision:

Couples facing the challenging prospect of divorce often grapple with the timing of their decision. Many choose to put off the legal proceedings until after the holiday season for their families’ sake, especially if children are involved. This delay is often rooted in the desire to maintain a sense of normalcy during a time typically associated with joy and unity.

Family-Focused Considerations:

The holidays are when families come together to celebrate and create cherished memories. For couples contemplating divorce, the decision to wait until after the festivities are over is often driven by a desire to shield their children from the emotional upheaval that can accompany such a significant life change. Psychologists suggest that maintaining stability during the holidays can help children cope more effectively in the long run.

Maintaining Traditions:

The holiday season is often steeped in family traditions that couples may hesitate to disrupt with the announcement of divorce. Postponing the separation until after the holidays can provide a reprieve, allowing families to partake in customary activities without the shadow of impending change.

Financial Considerations:

The financial strain associated with the holiday season can also play a significant role in the decision to delay divorce. Many couples postpone legal proceedings until after the holidays to avoid additional stress and financial burdens during a challenging time.

Wrapping this up:

The Monday after New Year’s Day is traditionally one of the busiest days on Google for the search term “divorce.”  It seems to be tied to when employees return to work and can search in a more private manner (however, New Years Day in 2024 is on a Monday, so that may mean the search terms go up a bit earlier this coming year.)   Why? Because the holidays are over and the children are back in school. Oh yes, New Year’s Resolutions are in full swing (not one more year!!!). So, be prepared for employees experiencing extra stressors during this time. 

While the decision to postpone divorce until after the holidays is complex, it is rooted in a desire to prioritize family, stability, and the well-being of all involved. As couples navigate this challenging time, it is crucial to seek professional guidance and support to ensure a smooth transition when the time comes to address the inevitable changes that lie ahead. 

We want to help and be the support for your divorcing employees. Let’s set up a time to talk about why your EAP is incomplete for your divorcing employees, and can hurt your employees more than you know.