On behalf of The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A.
It is common for children of divorced parents to experience a psychiatric disorder known as Separation Anxiety Disorder. This is the clinical term used to describe the stress children experience when separated from someone they are close to, in this case, a mother or a father. While it is okay for children to experience this disorder occasionally, there are times when they will exhibit symptoms that can be harmful to their physical and emotional well-being. So how can you help your children deal with this intense state of distress and help them cope in healthy ways? The first step is learning about this condition and seeking professional counseling. If you have any urgent legal matter to attend to related to child custody, leave it in the hands of Fort Lauderdale child custody lawyer Gustavo E. Frances.
Separation Anxiety and Divorce
Separation anxiety can be more intense in children of divorced parents. These children feel they lost a parent. This is generally the non-custodial parent who may not spend as much time with the child. The 50-50 approach to timesharing in Florida is not absolute so children will miss a parent who is no longer around. Children of newly divorced parents had only known one life with their parents together so it can be difficult for them to understand that mom and dad can no longer be together. The concept of having a new family or lifestyle is difficult to grasp, especially if they are young children. This is why it is important that parents try to keep the divorce process as amicable as possible. They should not argue in front of the children or pick unnecessary fights. It is difficult to explain to a child that a parent is leaving the house but it is a necessary step every divorcing couple must take.
Risk of Alienation
Parents should get involved in their children’s lives through and after divorce. They should help their kids through separation anxiety, especially the non-custodial parent who may not be involved in the child’s routine any longer. Sometimes children from their own opinion regarding the non-custodial parent based on what the custodial parent says can alienate the child even further.
Physical Issues
The stress caused by separation anxiety can lead to physiological symptoms as well. Some symptoms can include sleep problems, restlessness, stomach ulcers, diarrhea, asthma, and constipation. According to research at Primorska University, Slovenia, some children can also lose appetite, show melancholic behavior and symptoms of depression. For many children, the separation of their parents is a loss. Children can be eccentric and they may feel the world revolves around them so it takes time to understand that a separation or divorce has nothing to do with them. This is why parents should help them understand this fact. Once they know their parents didn’t get along, they will experience less separation anxiety and will eventually adapt to life after divorce.
When you need a family law lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, FL, you can contact us by click here or calling at 954-533-2756 for a free consultation.
