Are you based in or around Market Harborough, Leicestershire, have you gone through a divorce and are wondering how your child/children may be feeling? Often children do not open up to their parents, for fear of upsetting them or looking like they are taking sides, so it can be difficult to know how they really feel, which means knowing how to support them best can be difficult. Talking to a local therapist, here in Market Harborough, Leicestershire can help with this. It is someone that is not emotionally attached to the divorce and a neutral person, to share their thoughts and feelings with, without those feelings being judged in any way. Helping children to see that they can cope with the situation and still feel attached to and loved by both parents.

Divorce can be an emotionally turbulent experience, especially for children. They may struggle with feelings of confusion, sadness, and anxiety as their family structure changes. The emotional impact of a divorce can vary depending on a child’s age, personality, and the circumstances surrounding the separation. Regardless of these factors, many children experience significant distress as they navigate this life-altering event. Understanding how children feel during a divorce is crucial for parents and caregivers to offer the right support, including seeking child therapy when needed.

One of the most common emotions children feel during a divorce is confusion. Children often have a limited understanding of adult relationships, and they may not fully grasp why their parents are no longer together. This confusion can be compounded if the divorce is particularly acrimonious, with children witnessing arguments or tension between their parents. Children might internalise these events, blaming themselves for the breakup or wondering if there is something they could have done to prevent it. Parents need to reassure their children that the divorce is not their fault.

Along with confusion, many children experience a deep sense of sadness and loss. The dissolution of the family unit can lead to feelings of grief as children struggle to adjust to a new routine. They may miss the sense of security and stability that their family once provided, particularly if the divorce results in them living between two households. This emotional upheaval can also trigger feelings of anxiety. Children may worry about the future or feel uncertain about the changes that lie ahead. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, or frequent stomach aches.

Children’s anxiety may also stem from concerns about the relationships they have with each parent post-divorce. In some cases, children may feel torn between their parents, especially if there is ongoing conflict or custody disputes. The pressure to pick sides can leave children feeling emotionally exhausted and confused. In these situations, parents need to emphasise that their child’s love for both of them is valid and that they don’t need to choose between them.

Child therapy can be a vital tool in helping children process their emotions during and after a divorce. A child therapist provides a safe and neutral space for children to express their feelings and work through complex emotions in a way that feels manageable. Therapy can help children develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with the stress, anxiety, and sadness associated with the divorce. Through play therapy, art therapy, or talk therapy, a child therapist can guide children in understanding their emotions and navigating their new reality.

Support from family members, friends, and therapists can also play an essential role in helping children cope with the emotional challenges of divorce. Parents can facilitate their child’s emotional healing by maintaining open communication, ensuring stability, and encouraging participation in therapeutic activities. By acknowledging their child’s feelings and providing the necessary support, parents can help them navigate the emotional journey of divorce in a healthy, constructive manner.

In conclusion, the emotional impact of a divorce on children can be profound, leading to feelings of confusion, sadness, and anxiety. Child therapy can offer children the tools and support they need to process their emotions and build resilience. With the right guidance, children can successfully adapt to life after divorce, gaining a stronger sense of emotional well-being and security.

Click HERE to book a free consultation. For more information call 07742 733060, or email georgia@nlp4kids.org

Face-to-Face children’s sessions are offered in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, and online children’s and parent’s sessions are also available.

By Georgia Turner
https://nlp4kids.org/practitioners/georgia-turner/