The global pandemic will have a lasting effect on all ways of life as we know it. Unfortunately, one of those effects involves our relationships with others. As we are spending more time at home with our loved ones, it is not uncommon for arguments to arise. Our attorneys have compiled some tips to help you and your spouse get through these troubling times with minimal interference to your marriage. Although we are always here to provide counsel, we hope that you might be able to save your marriage before it reaches a breaking point.
Global Increase in Divorce Rates
China recently permitted its residents to venture back out into the world after several months of a lockdown mandate by its government. Upon the lift of the stay-at-home mandate, divorce filings surged. Many couples simply could not carry on forward with their marriage after having spent significant time isolated with one another. The U.S. is predicted to follow suit and divorce filings are likely to increase after stay-at-home orders are relaxed.
Isolation Increases Petty Arguments
On average, most couples spend at most 6 hours together on any given day. As a result of stay-at-home orders issued by state governments, these couples are forced to spend the majority of their day with their spouses while confined in a relatively small space. This leads to arguments over inconsequential issues that do not normally come up on a daily basis. One spouse may complain about the other not doing the dishes during lunch, not putting items away after using them for work, not providing enough attention throughout the day, the list goes on. The buildup of these petty arguments can have a snowball effect and have caused many to call into question the sanctity of their marriages.
Tips on Avoiding an Irreconcilable Breakdown
Divorce may seem like the easy way out of a quarrelsome marriage, but if contested in court, a divorce can be financially and emotionally burdensome on the parties. Consider the following to help prevent an irreconcilable breakdown during COVID-19:
· Set Quiet Hours. Many of us are working from home during these uncertain times. It may be helpful to establish mutually agreed-upon quiet hours. This will allow each spouse to buckle down and focus on their work that needs to get done throughout the day and limit any distractions that may lead to arguments.
· Spousal Distancing. People need their space, and without it, they can often develop feelings of anxiety as a result of being confined. If you have enough space in your home, consider setting up a work station in a separate and remote area of your home that is isolated from your spouse. This will allow you to maintain your focus during your work day and is a place for you to go when you just need to get away to be alone.
· Pick Up a Hobby. A hobby is a great way to pass time while doing something you enjoy. Dedicating 30 minutes a day to your hobby can promote stress relief and happiness and instill a sense of daily accomplishment. Make sure to not neglect your spouse in lieu of pursuing your hobby, though.
· Stay Busy With Household Tasks. Now is the perfect time to accomplish your home projects that have been put off because you did not have the time. Paint that spare bedroom. Fix that shelf in the hallway. Put up shelves in the garage. Tend to your garden. Exercise.
· Virtual Hangouts. Reach out to friends and family using online video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Hangouts. Host a game night. Catching up with friends and loved ones is a great way to spend a few hours in a given week and allows you to interact with others to see how they are spending their time.
Contacting a Divorce Attorney in Rockville, Maryland during COVID-19
In light of the recent public health concerns brought about by the spread of COVID-19, the attorneys of Joseph, Greenwald, and Laake, P.A. are practicing social distancing. However, this does not prevent us from providing zealous representation for our clients. Our attorneys are available via phone, email, and video conference to provide legal consultations for current and potential clients. If you are experiencing difficulties at home with your spouse and want to discuss your legal options, email us at jgreenblatt@jgllaw.com or give us a call at 240-399-7894. We are here to help.
