If you and your spouse are at home together during a COVID-19 lockdown or quarantine, you may be enjoying the extra time in each other’s company. However, the resulting changes are leading some couples to pursue a divorce. Here are the reasons why this might be happening and ideas for maintaining your marriage through these unique times.

3 Reasons Why COVID-19 Lockdowns Might Lead to an Increase in Divorce Cases

1. Employment & Financial Changes

Business closures and reduced work hours are increasing financial pressure on millions of families. To reduce stress and anxiety, talk to your spouse honestly about the challenges you face, and develop a strategy to adjust. Reexamining your budget to lower expenses, asking family or friends for support, seeking loan extensions, and getting assistance through the state’s COVID-19 information line may help relieve pressure until the employment situation improves.   

2. Monotony & Boredom

For some spouses who are cooped up at home day after day, monotony and boredom can set in. Getting exercise helps you stay healthy, both physically and emotionally. Go for regular walks or runs with or without your spouse, the kids, or a friend. Spending time outside in the fresh air—with appropriate social distancing—will lift your spirits, give you a break from being stuck inside, and help you sleep better.

3. Substance or Physical Abuse

The pressures of responsibilities in a marriage compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic may lead some spouses to increase their use or abuse of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. This behavior can lead to other unhealthy actions, including domestic violence, which can result in divorce.

For free, confidential help with substance abuse disorders, call the SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). If you are in a physically or emotionally abusive situation, seek help by reaching out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. You can speak with an advocate 24/7 online using their confidential chat feature, or call them at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

If you need divorce advice during the COVID-19 pandemic, contact the attorneys at Seiler & Parker P.C. LLO in Hastings, NE. Since 1952, they’ve provided clients with aggressive, solution-oriented representation in separation and divorce cases throughout the Tri-City area. Visit their website to learn how they can help you transition through this difficult period. Call (402) 463-3125 to speak with an experienced and compassionate attorney.