Family law deals with some of life’s most intimate and emotionally charged matters: divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and parental rights. The family team at Howell Jones are very well prepared to deal with the legal and practical issues of a relationship breakdown and strive to do so in a sensitive and understanding manner but we are well aware that alongside this there is an emotional toll that should not be ignored. Whatever the reason for the difficulties there will be feelings or guilt, despair, fear, and sadness.
Divorce and Separation: The decision to end a marriage is often accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from grief and anger to relief and uncertainty. During Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s crucial to recognise the toll that divorce and separation can take on individuals’ mental health. Our Family law team will approach this with sensitivity, understanding, and a recognition of the need for emotional support for their clients.
Child Custody and Parental Rights: Disputes over child custody and parental rights can ignite intense emotional battles. As courts navigate these complex issues, they must consider not only the legal factors but also the mental health of all parties involved. Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising the well-being of children and parents alike, ensuring that custody arrangements support their mental health and overall stability.
Access to Mental Health Services: For many individuals involved in family law proceedings, access to mental health services is critical. Whether it’s therapy for coping with the emotional strain of divorce or counselling for children navigating custody arrangements, mental health support plays a vital role in fostering resilience and healing. This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s amplify the call for increased access to affordable and culturally competent mental health services within the family law system.
This week is National Mental health Awareness week. Every year 1 in 4 of us experience a mental health problem and with over 2 million currently waiting for NHS mental health services it’s too easy to put off getting the help we need.
If you feel overwhelmed, hopeless or in need of support please do reach out the following resources:
- NHS Talking Therapies – Free self-referral service providing confidential treatments delivered by fully trained accredited NHS practitioners. They can help if you’re struggling with feelings of depression, social anxiety, excessive worry or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- Samaritans – If you need someone to talk to without judgement whatever you’re going through, you can call the Samaritans at any time, from any phone free of charge on 116 123.
- Every Mind Matters – NHS website offering expert wellbeing advice and practical tips. Every Mind Matters – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- If you need urgent help during a crisis, please speak to your GP, call 111 or go to A&E.
As Mental Health Awareness Week unfolds, let’s not overlook the profound implications of family law on mental health. By raising awareness, fostering empathy, and advocating for systemic changes, we can work towards a family law system that prioritizes the well-being of all individuals involved, fostering healing, resilience, and justice.
