This is not an easy decision to make, it should not be taken lightly and it is a decision that only you can make. Everyone’s personal circumstances are different but there are some considerations that may help you determine whether it is the right decision for you:
- Has there been a loss of trust or respect that cannot be regained?
- Are you no longer able to communicate and have healthy, constructive conversations?
- Do you still feel emotionally attached, or does it feel more like living with a roommate or experiencing loneliness?
- Are you unhappy most of the time?
- Is the marriage negatively impacting your mental health, self-esteem, or overall well-being?
- Is there any form of abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or financial)? If so, prioritising safety is critical.
- Do you feel supported? Does your partner contribute positively to your life, or do they drain your energy and happiness?
- Do you and your partner want different things in life, such as children, career goals, or lifestyles?
- Do you see a future together? Can you imagine a happy, fulfilling future with your spouse, or does the idea feel unattainable?
Ask yourself the tough questions:
- Have you done everything you can to make it work?
- Are you staying out of fear of the unknown, financial insecurity, or societal pressures?
- Is the relationship beneficial to you? A healthy marriage should be a source of mutual support, love and fulfilment.
What can you do to resolve any issues:
- Is there a joint effort to resolve the problems? Have you considered marriage counselling?
- Is there a genuine willingness to change?
If you have made repeated attempts to address the issues without improvement, it may be a sign that the relationship is no longer workable.
The decision to divorce should ultimately come from an honest assessment of your happiness, safety, and personal growth within the marriage. Staying in a marriage out of obligation or fear can lead to prolonged unhappiness, whereas the decision to divorce should be approached with clarity and care for all parties involved.
Seek Legal Advice
Obtaining legal advice before a proposed separation can help you understand your rights and options, and it may alleviate some of the fear of the unknown.
