January for some is synonymous with New Year’s resolutions, and goal setting for the next 12 months. For others, January is a period difficult period where the festive feeling wears off, people continue their battles with mental health and many encounter relationship issues. McAlister Family Law Solicitor, Gurdev Makan Singh looks at Blue Monday, mental health and relationship breakdown and what support is available.
What is Blue Monday?
Blue Monday generally falls on the third Monday of every January and is often referred to as ‘the most depressing day of the year’. After being distracted by the Christmas and New Year festivities, couples generally face the realities of relationship and financial issues.
Whilst couples can separate and initiate divorce proceedings at any point in the year, January still remains one of the popular months for spouses to instruct solicitors and commence divorce proceedings.
Mental health and relationship breakdown
We recognise that making the decision to end a relationship or even take that first step to seek advice from a solicitor can be a daunting step to take. Those who are subject to coercively controlling behaviour are often hard pushed to take steps to end a relationship out of fear of the reaction of the other partner/spouse.
Many people experience feelings of sadness, grief, anger and betrayal upon relationship breakdown. Parents also experience difficulties in managing the emotional and mental wellbeing of any children to a relationship upon relationship breakdown, especially when there is co-parenting involved.
What support is available?
Support for mental health struggles is available through the NHS, private practice and local charities such has Andy’s Man Club.
The role of a solicitor
Whilst it is always encouraged to seek the support of a mental health specialist if you are struggling following breakdown of your relationship, as family law solicitors, we recognise that each client and the need of that specific client is unique. Dealing with issues of family law is a highly emotional and sensitive area.
We as a team specialise in all aspects of relationship breakdown and deal with cases across the spectrum of sensitivity. We factor in the needs of individual clients and tailor our services to meet those needs in so far as possible.
If you or someone you know requires expert legal advice on family law matters, please get in touch with our specialist team at [email protected]
