How to Tell Your Friends and Family About Your Divorce
If you and your spouse are considering or have decided to end your marriage through divorce, one of the questions you have probably asked yourself is, “How should I tell everyone?” While divorce is fairly common present day, many people still fear the judgement or disappointment divorce can bring. While there is no prefect way to tell others that your marriage is ending, experts do have some advice for making the conversations go as smoothly as possible.
You Do Not Owe Anyone an Explanation
Oftentimes, when a person tells friends and family the news of a divorce, the recipients of this information demand details. This can be very difficult for many people going through a divorce to deal with. You have the right to share or not share personal information about the divorce at your own pace. If people in your life are asking you to share more information than you are comfortable doing, simply say something along the lines of “I am not ready to talk about this yet, but thank you for your concern.”
Avoid Sharing Too Much on Social Media
One way many people break news about life changes to friends and family is to write about it on social media. While websites like Facebook and Instagram may seem like a good place to vent frustrations about your soon-to-be-ex-spouse, doing this can backfire. Family law attorneys are increasingly looking to social media to find evidence to be used in family law matters. Posts on social media can influence the court’s decision regarding allocation of parental rights, child support, spousal support, domestic violence, and more. Furthermore, bashing your ex on social media only serves to stir up more tension and hostility, which will not help anyone.
Do Not Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Chances are, when you tell your loved ones about your divorce, they will ask if there is any way they can help. While some people feel that it is only polite to turn down this offer, taking advantage of your friends’ and family’s offers to help can significantly ease the burden you experience while getting divorced. Going through a divorce is stressful. There is nothing wrong with accepting help from friends and family in order to get through this challenging time in your life.
Need Legal Assistance?
If you are getting divorced, The Law Offices of Douglas B. Warlick & Associates are here for you. Our dedicated Kane County divorce attorneys have the experience and skills necessary to help you end your marriage as efficiently and equitably as possible. To schedule a confidential consultation regarding your case, call 630-232-9700 today.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/splitopia/201612/how-tell-others-youre-getting-divorced
http://divorce.lovetoknow.com/about-divorce/how-tell-people-you-are-getting-divorced
