Returning to work after the summer holidays often means stepping back into the routine of work and family life. For couples that are already under strain, this can be the tipping point to separation and divorce.
According to research by mediators in England and Wales couples often see an increase in phone calls and emails when the children are back in school.
While holidays are traditionally seen as good for relationships and families, the reality is they can be stressful and don’t always turn out as expected. This is particularly the case when relationships are already strained between couples and holidays only magnify their differences when the couple spends more time together.
Findings in the UK are also backed up in the US where research has found that there are clearly defined peaks in couples taking out divorce proceedings immediately after holiday seasons have ended particularly following Christmas and summer vacation periods.
So far from being the chance to take a breather and take stock, the evidence seems to support the view that in strained relationships it may be better not to take holidays together or at least make plans to ensure that holidays are as stress free as possible.
Contact us if you need guidance on matters relating to divorce and separation.