Thinking about your adult children in a gray divorce
If you and your spouse are heading for divorce and you share adult children, there are many factors for you to consider.
Your adult children may struggle with your divorce more than you expect and there are several ways you can help them as your family transitions to your new normal.
What is a gray divorce?
Gray divorce is a general term used to describe couples over 50 who decide to divorce. This is a relatively new term created in response to the growing trend of divorcing couples who have spent many years together.
How can I help my adult child process my divorce?
While you may expect your child to handle your divorce okay now that they are grown, the opposite may be true. Your divorce will likely still lead to a grieving process as your child attempts to work through what is and will never be. Here are some ways you can help your child process your divorce.
- Understand that healing takes time and do not rush them to “get over it”
- Accept that they may process your divorce differently than you do
- Do not take their frustrations with your divorce too personally
- Maintain contact with them to check in
- Encourage counseling if needed
- Do not ignore the past you share as you move together toward the future
Keeping your adult children in mind as you work through your divorce can help them process the change and help you move into the next stage of your life together.
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