Coping with Divorce and Separation

In these days of high stress, caused by busy lives and economic struggles, unfortunately, many couples are finding it difficult to cope. As a result, the divorce rate remains high in this country. The interesting, and sad, thing about divorce and separation, is that the event effects so many different facets of a person's life. Not only are living expenses compromised, but investments, and insurance plans need to be reviewed. Any property needs to be divided. Although the couple is separating, this last task needs to be handled by both partners. Even if only one Seller is on the title, the other person in the relationship has to sign off on any of the paperwork if we are talking about the matrimonial home. How difficult a task it would be, to work with someone with whom you are ending a relationship?

It is important that emotional needs of all the family members are cared for as well. Sometimes parents will say "My kids are doing just fine," when in fact they are struggling privately. Kids often are confused, feel pulled between parents, feel responsible and don't know where to turn. Children who have behavioural changes often get help, but what about those who keep their emotions bottled up? It is extremely difficult to care for the emotional needs of children when a parent is going through their own emotional struggles.

Now, you might be wondering why a REALTOR® is writing about these issues. They are important to me, as I spent many years working with families such as those I've described. Recently, a group of professionals: myself, a financial planner, an insurance specialist, a family therapist, and the national director of Rainbows Canada, have come together to help families in this situation transition as smoothly as possible. By working together as a group, we are able to support individuals during a very difficult time in their lives. (For those of you who don't know, Rainbows is an international not-for-profit organization that fosters emotional healing among children grieving a loss from a life-altering crisis.)

If you know of someone in this position, please let them know that they can receive a free resource guide by phoning Family TLC at 705-737-3513.

To read an article that recently appeared in one of the local papers, click here. Also, if you would like to learn more about Rainbows, click here.