Family law
How to discuss your divorce or separation with your loved ones
Divorce or separation is an incredibly difficult time, but it can be even harder when your loved ones ask questions. In this article, our family law experts share tips on how to discuss this change in your life with family and friends
Going through a divorce or separation is a time where your entire life can feel fragile. This fragility is not helped by difficult conversations with loved ones when you tell them what is happening. In this article, we share advice about setting boundaries for yourself whilst also being open with those who love you and want to support you.
Set boundaries
Going through a divorce or separation can stir up challenging emotions. Some may choose to isolate at this time as it feels safer, while others may be more open with their emotions. When discussing what is happening, and how you’re feeling about everything, it can bring these feelings to the surface again, highlighting the confusion and hurt you might feel if there are questions you don't have the answers to. Drawing boundaries for yourself before you enter these conversations can help you feel safe enough to discuss it, and only share details you are comfortable with other people knowing.
How much you share with loved ones is an incredibly personal choice, and you should only share what you feel comfortable with. No one is entitled to more information than you want to give, and your loved ones will understand if you choose to share less.
Discussions with loved ones
Discussing your separation or divorce with family and friends isn’t something that anyone feels good about, it can seem unsavoury at best and heartbreaking at worst. However, sharing what is happening in your life means those you cherish can understand and support you more at a time when you need it. Your community rallying around you is a reminder that you are loved and cared for. Bringing up these conversations can feel like the hardest step, so try to be in an environment you feel comfortable in, perhaps your home or that of a trusted friend or family. Starting with feelings can immediately set the tone of a need for kindness. For example, ‘I’ve not been doing too well recently, my partner and I have decided to separate’, to allow others to respond to how you’ve been feeling.
Leaning on your boundaries of what you feel comfortable sharing can help guide you in this conversation, and assist in what information you choose to bring up.
It is a difficult conversation to have, but take a breath, and take a step.
Compassionate legal support
As well as supporting you with the legal side of your divorce, our family lawyers understand what you are going through and can offer advice about how to approach this topic with your loved ones.
To discuss separation or divorce with lawyers you can trust for empathetic and bespoke support, call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online.
