Specialty tag(s): Family Partner Violence And Divorce, Mental Health and Addiction in Divorce, High-Conflict Divorce, Divorce
Aimee Pingenot Key | November 4, 2024
Navigating mental health issues in a divorce is never easy; the process of getting a divorce can be complex and emotionally taxing, and adding mental illness to the equation can quickly lead to overwhelming levels of stress and anxiety. That’s why understanding how to work with a spouse with mental health issues in a divorce is so essential. This is especially true if you and your spouse have children and will need to continue working together after the divorce is over. Fortunately, there are ways to help minimize any problems or conflicts with your spouse during and after the divorce.
Whether you’re still in the process of divorcing or trying to co-parent after the fact, effective communication is essential when dealing with an ex-spouse who has a mental health disorder. Misunderstandings as a result of poor communication can easily make divorce and mental health issues worse, so you need to be as clear and consistent as possible in all interactions. You may also want to consider using a written form of communication, such as email or text, so you have a record of your conversations.
Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is essential when navigating mental health issues and divorce. Your spouse needs to understand what you consider to be acceptable and unacceptable behavior so that you can both attempt to move forward as smoothly as possible. Setting clearly defined limits can help manage expectations and reduce stress, which can benefit all parties involved. This can be especially beneficial for anyone dealing with a spouse who has a high-conflict personality.
If you and your spouse have children, it’s important to remember that their well-being is a priority. The process of collaborating on parenting strategies will differ based on how serious the mental health issues in a divorce are, but consider doing so if possible. Working together to show that you both still care about your children and that the divorce has not changed that fact can have a beneficial and long-lasting impact on young minds.
If you’re involved in a divorce and mental health issues are proving to be a serious problem, you should consider contacting mental health professionals for support. They can provide advice and guidance on how to better interact with your spouse based on their specific mental health issues, such as whether they suffer from addiction or borderline personality disorder.
Having to deal with a spouse with mental health issues in a divorce can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience. While it’s understandable to feel that way, you should also try and remember that people with mental health issues can’t always control their actions. Consider taking some time to better understand your spouse’s mental illness. Doing so can often improve your interactions, and practicing empathy and patience can help ease tensions during the divorce and after.
While empathizing with a spouse struggling with mental health issues is commendable, you must always remember that your well-being is just as important. You need to ensure that you’re always putting your mental health first. Taking time to engage in self-care activities and seeking counseling or divorce coaching can help you better navigate the stresses associated with mental health issues and divorce.
In a divorce, mental health issues can have serious ramifications. Mental health issues such as addiction can influence child custody matters, spousal support, and much more. You should always speak with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney about any possible legal implications when you’re divorcing or co-parenting with a spouse with mental health issues.
If you’re facing difficulties in managing a divorce or post-divorce relationship complicated by mental health disorders, the experienced family law attorneys at Goranson Bain Ausley are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your legal options concerning divorce and mental health issues.
Our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of family law and will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you have the information you need to make wise decisions and prepare for the future.
At Goranson Bain Ausley, we strive to deliver clarity about what comes next and confidence that you and your family’s future are more secure. Contact our team and discover how we can help you.
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