I am Getting a Divorce, Do My Children Need Therapy?
Every year, divorce impacts many families in the United States of America. The current divorce rate in America is estimated to be 2.3 persons per 1,000 people. Divorce is one of the hardest things a family can face, which is true for both parents and children. As you and your spouse work towards divorcing, it is crucial that you consider the effects of divorce on your children. Your children are probably having it worse than you.
If you are a parent getting a divorce, you might be wondering, “Should I schedule therapy for my children?” The decision to schedule or not to schedule therapy for your children is entirely up to you. That decision is not set in stone. It is normal for children to get stressed or experience other emotions during a divorce. However, if certain signs and symptoms are present, it may be a clue that therapy would be beneficial. That said, even in such a situation, use your best judgment before making a decision.
Signs and Symptoms Your Child Might Need Therapy
If the following signs and symptoms are present, it is an indication that your child is not coping well with your divorce and may be a sign that you should consider seeking help through child and family therapy;
- Tearfulness, withdrawal, or anger that persists over several weeks
- Your child’s symptoms interrupt daily functioning or normal functioning
- People have told you that they are concerned about your child’s symptoms
- Your child’s symptoms disrupt the functioning or well-being of other household members
- Your child tells you they want to see a therapist
Below are some more acute signs and symptoms that might be an indication that you should consider seeking therapy for your child;
- Deterioration of school performance
- Not wanting to socialize with friends
- Noticeable, worrisome changes in eating habits
- Development of new phobias
- Fatigue or lack of enthusiasm without medical cause
Again, it is crucial to state that while the signs and symptoms listed above may be clues that your child needs therapy, you should use your best judgment before deciding to seek therapy services.
Benefits of Child and Family Therapy During Divorce
The decision on whether or not your child should see a therapist is entirely up to you. However, you should know that child and family therapy can offer several benefits. The following are some of the benefits of child and family therapy during divorce;
- Establish communication in the family: During and after divorce, communication between parents and children doesn’t always come easy. Child and family therapy can help you find communication strategies that work for you and your children. A therapist can help you identify issues with your communication strategies that you didn’t even know existed and help you find solutions.
- Alleviate concerns your children may have: For example, with therapy, you can help your child understand that they are not to blame for the divorce.
- Prepare for life after divorce: You can use therapy as an opportunity to prepare your children for upcoming changes, including living arrangements and vacations.
Contact an Orlando Divorce Lawyer
If you are going through a Florida divorce and need legal help, contact our experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at The Arwani Law Firm.
Source:
legaljobs.io/blog/divorce-rate-in-america/#:~:text=The%20current%20divorce%20rate%20in%20the%20US%20is%202.3%20persons%20per%201%2C000%20people
