Post-holiday Blues: Why Do Divorce and Separation Cases Rise After the Summer Holidays?
Every September, once the summer break has drawn to a close, I begin to receive a rise in divorce and separation enquiries.
For many families, instead of the long holidays bringing couples closer, they often highlight difficulties that have been building beneath the surface.
For those working with individuals and families, this seasonal pattern may explain why clients suddenly present with financial worries, concerns about housing or questions about future planning.
Understanding the context helps ensure they are directed towards the right advice and support when they need it most.
Why the summer holidays can strain relationships
The summer holidays bring together many pressures that are hidden or stay dormant throughout the rest of the year, disguised by the typical daily routine.
More time together as a family can sound idyllic to some, but when the reality does not match the expectation, frustrations quickly grow.
Added to this are financial demands, from costly trips abroad, to “staycations”, to keeping children entertained and fed for six weeks.
Then there are clashing hopes about what the holiday should be, whether that is relaxation, adventure or time with extended family.
When these expectations collide, small cracks in a relationship can become impossible to ignore.
What I hear from clients in September
The stories vary, but there are recurring themes in the conversations I have with clients at this time of year.
Some of the most common ones I hear are:
“Managing the cost of travel and entertaining the family created arguments that spilt over into every part of the holiday.”
“I realised that once the children were busy with school again, I could no longer hide how unhappy I felt at home.”
“The break highlighted how differently we want to spend our time and money, and I could not see how those views could be reconciled.”
Many couples hope that a change of scenery will heal tensions. When that does not happen, the return to everyday life in September can feel like the right moment to face these difficult issues.
Option for when a relationship is not working
There are several options available to help someone move forward when a relationship is not working.
Speaking to a solicitor is not a commitment to divorce or separation, but it should provide clarity to make informed decisions, whether that is to keep working on the relationship, take time apart or proceed with a divorce or separation.
The right option will depend on the circumstances and priorities of those involved.
Having a consultation with a solicitor is a great first step to understanding legal and financial positions.
We will discuss income, property, business interests, trusts, pensions and international assets if relevant.
Some couples I have worked with want to explore whether communication can be improved in a structured setting.
Mediation or collaborative law can provide a safe, open environment to discuss expectations, finances and parenting arrangements without escalating conflict.
If separation is likely, early negotiation utilising Non Court Based Dispute Resolution (NCBDR) options can avoids the stress, cost and publicity of court proceedings.
However, sometimes court is unavoidable, particularly where there are significant disputes or differences or one party is unwilling to disclose information.
In those situations, the court may be the best route for resolution, but it is usually the option of last resort.
Get advice on separations and divorce
If the summer has left you or someone you know reconsidering a relationship, I would encourage seeking professional advice early.
This is not about rushing decisions. It is about giving yourself the space to make informed choices that protect your wellbeing and your family’s future.
