Few couples get married with the idea of breaking up, yet nearly half of U.S. marriages end in divorce. Often a partner with a low pain threshold feels they just cannot take the problems anymore, even if ending the marriage creates new issues like financial burdens and housing issues. However, most people still consider divorce a last straw and work at marriage.
That generally gets the most social approval but is not always the right answer. Divorce can lead to a much better life if your spouse is abusing you, being unfaithful, or creating major financial problems. It is usually the best solution if you are living with an addict.
You Are Experiencing Mental or Physical Abuse
If your spouse is abusing you, staying in the marriage can be life threatening. The Washington Post recently reported that abuse accounts for 30,000 U.S. deaths each year. The rule of thumb is that if a partner hits you once, they will do it again. It is very easy to convince yourself that they “didn’t mean it”, especially since abusers generally say just that and then apologize. Emotional abuse like screaming and name calling is also abuse and can erode your self-confidence and harm your children. If you find yourself in either of these situations, an attorney can help. For example, when clients contact a Divorce Lawyer Cumming, Georgia professionals help them understand their options and make plans.
Your Spouse Has Been Unfaithful
Like abusers, cheaters are generally repeat offenders. If you are certain your spouse is unfaithful, you need to seriously consider whether you want to stay in the relationship. It is very hard to understand why someone you love would prefer another person, but there is no one answer. They might offer a rationale, such as infatuation with someone. Many people simply grow bored and turn their focus to interests outside the marriage. According to Psychology Today, affairs with co-workers are some of the most common. However, the truth is, there is no good reason to cheat. You can work on our marriage, but should also think about why you want to stay with someone who has no respect for you or your marriage vows.
You Cannot Solve Financial Problems
A spouse that overspends and puts your marriage at financial risk will create non-stop tension and problems. A recent Forbes article revealed that couples with financial issues are far more likely to divorce. Economic problems make it hard to support your family and you are likely to be hounded by bill collectors. Staying married to someone with a gambling or shopping addiction will bury you in debt that can take decades to pay.
Your Partner Has an Alcohol or Drug Problem
Millions of people stay married to alcoholics or drug addicts thinking they can “fix” their spouses. They can’t. If addicts are going to recover, it must be their decision. No matter how much an addict’s children or spouse suffer, it will not make them change. Sometimes the threat of fake divorce papers is enough to spur them to take action, but most have to hit rock bottom first. If you choose to remain in the marriage, you can bet that your life will spiral out of control just as theirs will.
Divorce may not be the most pleasant solution to a troubled marriage, but sometimes it is the only smart one. No one should stay in a marriage with an abuser, addict, cheater, or someone who overspends to the point of financial ruin.
