What Is Coercive Control?
Coercive and controlling behaviour is often a covert form of abuse It can be insidious and difficult to evidence but causes serious harm to the victim...
The act of divorcing or separating usually comes about after a period, sometimes an extended period, where life at home will have been unhappy, stressful and generally difficult. If there are children at home, then stress levels will have been compounded as you will have been worrying about them too. This can have a negative impact on your mental health.
Stress May Have Been Increasing For Years Before A Separation
If you’ve got to the point where an actual divorce or separation is the best option then you have usually tried various means of compromise and getting along: perhaps been to Relate or a counsellor. By the time you get to the point of a separation this has been going on for a while and you will invariably be suffering the strain of a stressful situation.
You May Not Be Aware Of A Mental Health Problem
It is not always obvious when you may be developing a mental health problem. Feeling anxious, not sleeping and similar symptoms may appear normal in the circumstances. Left unchecked, though, things can worsen.
There are numerous articles and signposting to support organisations on this hub. That said, if you are worried or concerned about how you are feeling or coping, an early appointment with your GP is the right thing to arrange.
Common health issues include: depression, anxiety disorders, loneliness and panic attacks.
Are you arranging safe, child-centric contact?
The only charity in the UK dedicated to child contact, by providing safe spaces where children can meet the parents they don’t live with.
Have you made the parents promise?
The #ParentsPromise helps parents make a positive commitment to their children today, in case of a relationship breakdown tomorrow.
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Recognising And Dealing With Stress
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External Resources
Mind
Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. You can find out where your nearest local service is and lots of information and support to help you and your family.
NHS Advice for Parents
Find advice and support for parents who have children or teenagers with mental health problems.
NACCC
Child Contact Centres are neutral places where children of separated families can enjoy contact with non-resident parents, and sometimes other family members, in a comfortable and safe environment. Every year, this national organisation, via its member centres, supports families and children in their local community.
NHS Mental Health Signposting Page
Find general advice on adult mental health issues. These pages offer easy-to-understand introductions to common mental health problems and signposting to additional support.
The Samaritans
National charity for those experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The Campaign Against Living Miserably
A charity dedicated to supporting people who are struggling to cope.
Family Lives
Guidance and useful signposting for those with young children suffering with anxiety.
National Family Mediation
General guidance for parents on looking after your mental health and that of your children during a divorce or separation.
NSPCC
Informative pages on children's mental health.
