Divorce and Post-Traumatic Stress – What You Can Do

Often our clients reflect on negative emotional flashbacks such as arguing, yelling at each other, cursing, screaming, violence or unfaithfulness as some of the catalysts for a divorce.

This type of home environment likens itself to a warzone, leaving emotional scars that can last a lifetime for anyone in the family.

And with these scars, we sometimes find our clients are not only struggling with anger, depression and anxiety, but they or their children have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

PTSD can occur from ANY traumatic event, including divorce. The events leading up to dissolution can cause PTSD in adults and children. It can be a terrifying time, especially if you are involved in a litigated, adversarial court divorce.

But, when you utilize a collaborative divorce team, your family works with a team that works holistically, including any emotional health issues.

A mental health professional and child life specialist are a vital part of the collaborative team. Here is how they can help:

• Teach you healthier ways to work through the emotional pain
• Give you “tools” to help you and your spouse communicate with each other in a rational and calm manner
• Work toward resolving emotional flashpoints or misunderstandings
• Develop a plan to help talk to your child about your divorce
• Develop an agreeable co-parenting plan
• Work with your children to process their feelings of anger, loss, lack of safety or confusion

Working with a team of mental health experts during your divorce process can help your family in so many positive ways and fill your “emotional toolbox” with tools to work with in the future.

When you utilize the Los Angeles Collaborative Family Law Association experts, you can begin working on healing your family’s emotional well-being.

Call us today if you would like to learn more about how our members at LACFLA can help you and your family through your divorce and preserve your family’s mental health!

Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax/or medical advice. You should work with your attorney, financial, medical or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.