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It can be very difficult to know what to say to a family member who is going through a divorce. You’ll want to be there for the person during his or her struggles, but what is the best way to truly provide caring support?
Below are a few tips to consider:
- Remember that every case is unique: If you have gone through the process yourself, try to avoid comparing their situation to yours. Every relationship (and divorce) is unique, so what worked for you might not necessarily work for them. Be sensitive to their feelings and realize it is not exactly the same as what you went through. Never make it about you.
- Allow them to escape: If they don’t want to talk about it, don’t force them to. You may find that you serve as a source of escape for them from their troubles, which is just fine.
- Be specific with support offers: Saying “I’m here when you need me” is a nice sentiment, but it doesn’t really give your loved one much to go on. Instead, think of a specific way you can help. Offer to cook a dinner, drive their kids to extracurricular activities or perform some chores around their house.
- Be there for the long haul: The end of a relationship can be traumatic for a person, and people who go through a divorce often need to cling to relationships they know will last. This is where family members become such an important part of the process, because family is forever no matter what. Be there for them when they need you, whether it’s for emotional support or for a good time out on the town.
For more tips about how you can help a family member cope with their divorce, or to get sound legal advice as you approach this process, reach out to a dedicated Minnesota family law attorney with Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.
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