Why it's Hard to End a Marriage
Divorcing a spouse can be a difficult and emotionally taxing decision for many people. One of the main reasons for this is the uncertainty of whether or not to stay or leave the marriage. On one hand, leaving the marriage may seem like the only way to escape an unhappy or unhealthy relationship. On the other hand, staying in the marriage may seem like the safer or more practical option, especially if there are children involved or if one partner is financially dependent on the other.
Another reason that divorce can be difficult is the fear of the unknown. Leaving a long-term relationship can be scary because it means having to start over and rebuild a new life. It also means facing the unknown future and the uncertainty of how one's children, friends, and family will react.
Furthermore, there is a lot of societal pressure to stay in a marriage, even if it is unhappy. Many people feel guilty or ashamed for wanting to leave a marriage, especially if they have been married for a long time. They may feel like they are failing by not being able to make the marriage work.
In addition, there is also the legal process of divorce to consider. The process can be long, costly, and emotionally draining. It can also be a source of conflict between the two parties, leading to further stress and turmoil.
All these factors make it hard for someone to decide whether to stay or leave a marriage. However, it's important to remember that staying in an unhappy or unhealthy marriage is not always the best option for anyone involved. It's important to take the time to weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that is best for you and your family.
Nancy Fagan is the founder of the Relationship Resolution Center, an online counseling, mediation, and coaching business. She holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology and is the former owner of the largest divorce mediation firm in San Diego. She is a 3-time published author and has appeared on countless television, radio shows, and quoted in national magazines since 1997.