Potential Impacts of Getting a Divorce to Consider
No one gets married with the plan to get divorced, but some relationships just aren’t meant to be. Now, we’re not going to get into why the relationship didn’t work, as that would take far too long. However, there are some potential impacts of getting a divorce to consider, and that’s what we’re going to focus on. Everyone should understand the potential impacts, because if we’re being honest, nobody likes change and nobody likes surprises. If you’d like to learn the potential outcomes (other than separation), continue reading.
Personal finance
Whether you’re the primary income earner or not, you’re likely going to experience a change in your finances for several reasons including alimony, taxes, child support (if applicable), or a new source of income. It’s common that one spouse pays alimony in most divorce settlements, but it’s not always the case. Additionally, you’re going to resolve back to individual taxes and begin working on your own which can be a huge change for some.
Social adjustments
Whether you want it or not, everyone is going to give their two cents about your divorce. Some people will support the divorce while others might rebuke you for not “making it work.” Either way, you’re going to experience some major social changes such as broken and strengthened friendships, in addition to changes in your relationship with your family. Some people say the social impacts of divorce are the hardest part, so if you go into the divorce knowing things will change, the process might be a little easier.
Mental health
Even if you’re the one asking for the divorce, there’s no doubt that the reality of separation takes a toll on your mental health. Everyone who goes through a divorce struggles with wondering if the divorce is their fault and what they could’ve done differently. It’s important to recognize that these emotions and questions are normal, that you’re not alone, and that there’s nothing wrong with asking for help.
Immigration status
If you’re not a US citizen, one of the potential impacts of getting a divorce to consider is how divorce affects your immigration status, and rightfully so. In general, getting divorced doesn’t directly impact your chances of becoming a US citizen, and if anything, the process might be delayed. As usual, you should consult with an attorney to ensure you’re still on the right track for both the divorce and your immigration status.
There’s no doubt that divorce should be your last resort if possible, but we understand that some relationships simply need to break off. Unfortunately, getting a divorce isn’t as simple as “breaking off.” There’s a lot of paperwork, emotion, stress, and expenses involved, and those are all real factors to take into consideration before asking for a divorce, if at all possible.
