Why So Many Divorces Happen After the Holidays—Including Mine
Have you ever noticed how many divorces seem to begin in January? I didn’t—until I went through my own. Looking back now, I can see the pattern more clearly. Many of my friends and family who experienced divorce also started their journeys after the holiday season, myself included.
Seven years ago, my divorce began right after the holidays. I had been contemplating the decision for years, but the struggles of that final year cemented my choice. It was a decision shaped by years of neglect and emotional abuse—things I could no longer endure.
The previous Christmas had been a turning point for me. I had made a beautiful dinner for my children and my ex. But my ex didn’t show up until 9:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve. As we sat down to eat without him that night, I felt the weight of years of similar disappointments. It was one of many moments that deepened the cracks in our marriage.
Why Do People Wait Until After the Holidays to Divorce?
At the time, I didn’t fully understand why we often hold on through the holidays, even when a relationship is falling apart. Reflecting on my own experience, I stayed for my children. I wanted to give them one last holiday as a family, even though the tension in the air was undeniable.
Many people face the same pressure: the desire to maintain the appearance of a happy family, the hope for a holiday miracle, or simply the wish to avoid adding more pain to an already emotional season.
I’ve since learned this is a common experience. Countless men and women have shared stories of waiting until after the holidays to finally say, “I’m done.” The holiday season, while joyous for some, often magnifies dissatisfaction and exposes the cracks in a marriage, making them impossible to ignore.
According to experts, January often sees a spike in divorce filings—a phenomenon tied to the emotional toll of the holidays and the natural desire to start fresh in the new year.
Why Divorce Feels So Hard
Divorce is more than a legal process—it’s a deeply emotional journey that touches every aspect of life:
Grief and Loss: Divorce often involves grieving multiple layers of loss—the shared future you envisioned, the family unit you built, and the intimacy you once shared. It’s a unique kind of grief, especially when lingering ties, like co-parenting, remain.
Identity Crisis: The end of a marriage can leave you questioning who you are without your role as a spouse.
Fear of the Unknown: Divorce brings uncertainty about finances, living arrangements, and future relationships, creating anxiety and stress.
The Practical Challenges of Divorce
Financial Strain: Supporting two households increases costs, and the division of assets, alimony, or child support can add pressure.
Legal Complexities: Custody battles or property disputes can make the process overwhelming.
Impact on Children: For parents, balancing your emotional needs with those of your children is a delicate and often difficult task.
Why January, February, and March?
The first three months of the year see a spike in divorce filings, and here’s why:
New Year’s Reflections: The start of a new year prompts people to reassess their lives and relationships, often leading to decisions about separation or divorce.
Timing After the Holidays: Many couples choose to wait until after the holiday season to avoid disrupting family traditions or causing emotional strain for their children.
A Fresh Start Mindset: January, February, and even March carry the momentum of new beginnings, symbolizing an opportunity for those seeking change to reset and move forward.
Practical Planning: Financial factors like year-end bonuses, tax filing, and legal preparation often influence the timing of divorce decisions.
Children’s Well-Being: Many parents delay divorce until after the holidays to minimize stress on their children during an emotional season.
March as a Follow-Up: Divorce filings often peak in March because decisions made in January require time for planning and filing.
Tips for Navigating Divorce
Seek Emotional Support: Lean on trusted friends, family, divorce coach, or a therapist.
Take Advantage of Helpful Resources: Tools like our Just Separated Workbook offer practical advice and exercises to guide you through the early stages of divorce and help you move forward. To support you during January Divorce Month, the Just Separated Workbook is available on Amazon at 25% off the regular price. In addition to the workbook, you can find numerous blogs, podcasts, and other online resources to further support your journey.
Prioritize Self-Care: Stay mindful of your physical and mental health by eating well, exercising, and finding moments of calm.
Get Professional Advice: Consult a divorce attorney, mediator, and financial advisor early to ease uncertainties.
Be Patient with Yourself: Healing takes time, and it’s okay to not have all the answers right away.
A Message of Hope
If you’re facing a divorce or thinking of getting a divorce this month, know that you’re not alone. While the journey is challenging, it’s also an opportunity to rediscover yourself and build a brighter future. Surround yourself with the right support, take things one day at a time, and trust that healing is possible.
Your new chapter is waiting to begin. If you’ve been through a similar experience, I’d love to hear your story or what has helped you along the way. Feel free to share in the comments—together, we can remind each other that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
Exciting News: The Just Separated Workbook is Now Available on Amazon Worldwide!
Divorce Can Feel Overwhelming—The Right Support Makes All the Difference.
Just Separated: A Hands-on Workbook for Your Separation & Divorce is your all-in-one guide to navigating divorce. Covering emotions, recovery, legal essentials, financial planning, and co-parenting strategies, it offers practical tips and exercises you can use anytime—no need to read cover to cover.
Find clarity, rebuild your life, and take control of your future with this must-have resource.
🎉 To support you during January Divorce Month, the workbook is 25% off on Amazon worldwide. Download a free sample today and see how Just Separated can guide you through this journey.
