Marriages that were already hanging on by a thread have been tested severely by the side effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even unions that seemed solid have had their foundation shaken during this troubling time. Michigan divorces, and divorces across the nation, have been rising, especially among newlyweds, according to data collected by Legal Templates. The number of people looking for divorces between March and June 2020 was 34 percent higher than the same time last year.
1. Unemployment and Financial Strain
While some families are saving money during COVID because they aren’t going on vacations or spending money on weekend outings, others are in very precarious financial zone. One or both partners may have to file for unemployment, or they have had their hours reduced which has affected their monthly income significantly. Financial strain can cause turmoil in a marriage in the best of times, let alone during the coronavirus.
2. Illness and Death
Managing any sort of illness is stressful. If you or someone you love has contracted the coronavirus, or they work in an environment that puts them at risk of getting the disease, the stress on your relationship can be too much to bear.
The loss of a loved one, whether to COVID or any other illness or accident, is difficult to cope with at any time, let alone when you do not have the opportunity to fully grieve or find closure. The passing of someone close to you can make any adult rethink their position in life and whether they’re in the right place – or the right marriage.
3. Homeschooling
Families have been together 24/7 since March and that means around-the-clock parenting. For those with kids who are doing online learning, or who have elected to homeschool their kids rather than send them to school in person, the stress can be massive. In many households, the brunt of education management falls to one spouse, which can lead to resentment and frustration.
4. Mental Illness
If one or both spouses have a history of anxiety, depression, or any mental illness, the strain of being in lockdown has exacerbated the problems for many. There are also millions of people who, though they normally do not struggle with any sort of mental strain, are for the first time facing the pressure of anxious days and nights or various stages of depression. For many, these complications test the bounds of marriage.
5. Isolation
Some couples thrive on a healthy social life, whether they go out with each other on a weekly date night or get together regularly with friends. Being out and about is heavily stunted now, as is the ability to get babysitters for the kids. The absence of these opportunities for a pair to connect have contributed to the demise of many relationships.
Are You Ready to Get a Michigan Divorce?
If the pandemic has tested your union and you have decided it’s time to get a Michigan divorce, contact the family law attorneys at Michigan Divorce Help to schedule your consultation. Our offices are following all social distancing and safety precautions and we can meet with you in person.